On January 21, the Dien Bien Department of Health said that from January 1-19, 15 cases of measles and suspected cases of measles were recorded in 7/45 communes and wards in the province.
Cases of measles and suspected cases are concentrated in communes: Si Pa Phin (4 cases), Na Bung (3 cases), Na Hy (3 cases), Muong Mun (2 cases); Muong Tung, Pu Nhi and Muong Lay ward each recorded 1 case.
The majority of patients are children under 5 years old, of which the group from 9 to under 24 months old accounts for the highest proportion (40%).
Notably, up to 36.4% of children are of measles vaccination age but have not been vaccinated or have no clear vaccination history.
Epidemiological investigation shows that the rate of children being fully vaccinated with 2 doses of measles vaccine is still low, posing a risk of epidemic outbreaks if not controlled promptly.
Currently, the Dien Bien Department of Health has proactively implemented measures to prevent and control measles; directing health units to strengthen supervision, early detection of cases, organize isolation, timely treatment, and closely monitor cases of contact to limit spread and minimize severe cases and deaths.
