Measles outbreak claims lives of seven children in GB’s Diamer district

GILGIT: Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan has been hit by a severe measles outbreak, resulting in the death of at least 7 children, with dozens more affected.

According to a health official, around 8 to 10 children infected with the illness were being brought to hospitals on a daily basis. The health crisis has prompted immediate action from local health authorities to contain the spread and prevent further casualties. An emergency has been declared at the District Headquarters Hospital in Chilas.

Director of Health Services for the Diamer Astore Division Dr. Shakeel Ahmed Khan has ordered District Health Officer Dr Muhammad Riaz to commence an urgent vaccination drive in the affected areas.

According to a press note shared by the health department, several children from various regions, including Koistan, have been reported to be among those affected. A targeted measles vaccination campaign is set to run from February 7 to 10 in several areas, including Chilas, Batogah Khinar, Thak Niyat, and Thor Hudur in Diamer.

The health department has made an appeal to the residents of these areas cooperate with vaccinating teams and ensure their children receive the measles vaccine. This preventive measure is crucial in safeguarding children against this deadly disease and supporting the health teams in their efforts to combat the outbreak.

What is Measles

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects children, though individuals of any age can be susceptible. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing of infected individuals or through direct contact with secretions.

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Symptoms typically appear 10-12 days after exposure to the virus and include high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes (conjunctivitis), and a characteristic red rash that usually starts on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. Complications from measles can be severe and include pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and death, especially in children under five years of age and adults over 30. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles and its spread within communities.