Eradicated Measles returns to haunt youth, infants

By Zainab Husein and Ranuka Jayawardane

The health authorities announced that eradicated Measles had resurfaced with over 1000 cases reported among youth aged 20 to 30 years and infants under 9 months since May 2023.  

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2019 it was reported that Measles was eradicated from Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Medical Association (SLMA) said at a special press conference on November 7 (Thursday).   

The SLMA, the Epidemiology unit and Ministry of Health have organized a Special Measles-Rubella (MR) Immunization Campaign which will be held from November 9 to December 7.  

“The main objectives of this campaign is to prevent the transmission of Measles within communities, protect children exposed to risk and secure public health and welfare,” the SLMA stated.   

The SLMA has identified the high-risk groups in 12 districts. Their target population for the immunization campaign includes children who missed the prescribed doses, students and employees aged 20-30 years of which higher measles cases were reported.   

SLMA has been closely engaging with selected work places, higher educational institutions and field immunization centres for broader community outreach. On-site vaccinations are further conducted at such locations for improved accessibility. The SLMA said that health workers are conducting house-to-house visits to educate families and identify those who aren’t fully vaccinated.   
These are some of the key activities organized during the Immunization Week, which was declared by the Ministry of Health.  

When questioned about the safety of these vaccines, Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana – Consultant, Epidemiologist from the Ministry of Health said, “the vaccines have been prequalified by the WHO and used globally for a long time, and have proven to be highly effective”   

SLMA further added, “This immunization week plays a crucial role in creating awareness, preventing further outbreaks and eradicating this highly contagious disease.”