Espiritu said the PHO is awaiting the results of the laboratory test on blood samples taken to the Department of Health.
However, he maintained that there is no measles outbreak in Capiz.
He said the PHO is conducting close case monitoring and surveillance activities in partnership with rural health units (RHUs) and hospitals here.
Health authorities in the province were also intensifying measles vaccination among children.
Immunization against measles is done through RHUs, said Espiritu.
Measles immunization is a routine vaccination of children nine to 11 months old, Espiritu said. Children are given monovalent vaccines, he said.
On the other hand, “children 12–15 months old will be given measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines,” Espiritu said.
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus.
It remains one of the leading causes of death among young children despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine, the World Health Organization said.
Among its symptoms were blotchy rash, fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes (conjunctivitis), feeling run down and achy (malaise), and tiny white spots with bluish-white centers found inside the mouth (Koplik’s spots).
Espiritu called on parents to bring their children to the nearest health center to get them vaccinated against measles for free. (Jemin Guillermo, PIA-Capiz/PN)
