Measles cases in PNG increases

Measles used to be a common childhood disease, but after an effective vaccine was developed, the disease was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. This year's outbreaks, however, put that status in jeopardy. solidcolours/Getty Images. Sketched by the Pan Pacific Agency.

PORT MORESBY, Jan 15, 2020, NBC News / PNG Today. Papua New Guinea has confirmed 4 measles cases. One in Gulf, New Ireland, and National Capital District. The latest being a seven-year-old girl confirmed with measles in NCD, PNG Today reported.

National Department of Health revealed this when giving a situation update on the measles cases in the country today, 14th January 2020.

According to the Health Department’s brief to the media houses, the young girl is a close relative of the 6-month-old baby who was also confirmed with measles in NCD recently.

The child was identified by the rapid response team from the Health Department when they visited the East Boroko area to conduct the measles vaccinations following the first case in the same area.

Meantime general public is being urged to take their children to their nearest clinics to ensure they are vaccinated.

Measles vaccinations are free of charge in every clinic.

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