WHO team investigates measles outbreak in Tizit

DIMAPUR, SEP 25 (NPN): A World Health Organization (WHO) team has conducted a field investigation into a measles outbreak in Tizit block under Mon district following the detection of laboratory-confirmed cases, even as the health and family welfare (H&FW) department stepped up surveillance and preparations for a vaccination drive.
According to a DIPR report, WHO team visited Tizit following a block-level meeting held on September 21 at the community health centre (CHC), Tizit, to review the outbreak and strengthen the response. The meeting was led by chief medical officer (CMO) Mon, Dr. Supongmenla Walling, and district programme manager (DPM) Moie Bonnie Konyak.
The meeting reviewed the outbreak situation, revision of the immunisation micro-plan and coordination with the WHO regional team.
Health personnel from all health units under Tizit block were directed to submit updated immunisation micro-plans and lists of unvaccinated children to facilitate vaccination planning.
The visiting WHO team comprised Dr. M.A.H. Azhar, MD, surveillance medical officer (SMO), WHO Mokokchung, and Dr. Jayaseelan Vedamuthu, surveillance in-charge, NE region. The team conducted field-level assessments of the outbreak and supported surveillance and response measures in coordination with district health authorities.
Following the investigation, the WHO team and health officials met additional deputy commissioner (ADC) Mon Pakon Phom to strengthen coordination between the H&FW department and district administration, particularly on public awareness and dissemination of information to affected villages.
ADC agreed to issue necessary instructions and facilitate distribution of awareness materials to village authorities once the materials are made available.
H&FW department has scheduled a measles vaccination drive from October 12, with awareness activities to precede the campaign. Children aged 5-10 years would be vaccinated through schools, while those below five will be covered through Anganwadi centres and home visits.
Authorities would compile updated school enrolment data and lists of unvaccinated children to ensure comprehensive coverage. Schools have also been directed to promptly report students or staff developing fever and rash or other suspected measles symptoms to the nearest health facility.
Individuals suspected or confirmed to have measles have been advised to remain at home or in appropriate isolation and avoid schools, workplaces, public gatherings and public transport while infectious, until cleared by the competent health authority.
H&FW department urged the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention for fever accompanied by rash. Parents, teachers, village authorities and community leaders have also been urged to cooperate with health workers and support awareness and vaccination activities.
H&FW department and district administration said they would continue coordinated surveillance, vaccination and public health measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission.