Health ministry monitoring int'l outbreak

Acting chief medical officer, Dr Marion Bullock DuCasse says the Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the measles outbreak which has affected several states in the US and Mexico.

However, Dr DuCasse indicated that Jamaica has been free of endemic (local) transmission of measles since 1991 because of the success of its Expanded Programme on Immunisation.

"Through the programme, which was established in 1977, endemic measles transmission was interrupted in 1991. Our immunisation coverage is usually in the 90 per cent range.

"Despite this, we have seen how diseases can cross borders, and so we have to ensure that we keep a close watch on the situation in the United States and any other country where measles cases occur.

"All Jamaicans are therefore urged to ensure that they and their children are protected," Dr DuCasse said.

She says parents who have not immunised their children against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases should do so immediately, as they (the children) will be susceptible.

Measles is caused by a virus and is highly contagious. It is spread through direct contact and through the air. Complications include pneumonia and can lead to death.

The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) issued a measles alert on January 28, 2015 due to the outbreak. The agency has recommended enhanced vigilance, given the strong travel ties between the Caribbean and the USA, and given that the region is in the midst of the tourism high season.