Paraguay measles outbreak: Citizens are urged to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations

The measles outbreak in Paraguay, which began in August, is currently showing a dispersion of cases. Last week, another case of measles was confirmed in the Central department. This is a young adult over 20 years old who lives in the city of Mariano Roque Alonso. The case is linked to an imported case and is a close contact of the previous case reported in Fernando de la Mora, also a young adult. Investigations show that both people affected by the virus are directly linked to the cases reported in the second department, San Pedro.

Twenty people with suspected measles are currently under investigation, 17 of whom are from San Pedro and 3 from the Metropolitan Area.

To date, the number of confirmed cases of measles in the country amounts to 45: 43 from San Pedro distributed in Tacuatí (21), Nueva Germania (14) and Santa Rosa del Aguaray (8); and 2 from Central.

According to the weekly report, currently in San Pedro, the districts of Nueva Germania and Santa Rosa del Aguaray have had no new confirmed cases for 21 days; while in Tacuatí, the outbreak remains active.

Among those affected by the disease, the age range remains the same: children and adults between 3 months and 54 years old. Since the beginning of the outbreak, seven of those affected required hospitalization, all from San Pedro. They are currently discharged. None required intensive care. No deaths have been reported.

Given the transmission trend of the measles virus, it’s important to stay up-to-date on vaccinations. Those who haven’t yet received their protective dose against this contagious disease should visit their nearest vaccination center.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can be serious and fatal. It is transmitted through microdroplets expelled when talking, coughing, and sneezing. These droplets can remain suspended in the air for up to two hours.

If you experience symptoms (fever and a rash that spreads over the entire body), seek medical attention immediately, wear a face mask, and take extra hygiene measures such as frequent handwashing. Measles may also be accompanied by a cough, conjunctivitis, and runny nose.

Vaccination is the most effective measure against measles. The regular vaccination schedule calls for the first dose of the vaccine to be administered at 12 months of age and again at 18 months.