Vietnam reports large increase in measles in 2024
According to statistics from the Ministry of Health in 2024, the number of measles cases increased rapidly compared to the previous year. The number of suspected measles rash fever cases was 38,364 (an increase of more than 94 times compared to 2023) and the number of measles positive cases was 6,725 (an increase of more than 130 times compared to 2023).
Provinces and cities with high numbers of cases include: Dong Nai (6,360 cases), Ho Chi Minh City (4,758 cases), Binh Duong (4,745 cases), Ca Mau (2,405 cases).
The country has recorded 13 deaths due to measles, mainly children and elderly people with underlying diseases.
To prevent measles, the Department of Preventive Medicine, Ministry of Health recommends:
1. Take the initiative to take children from 9 months to 2 years old who have not been vaccinated or have not received 2 doses of measles vaccine to get fully vaccinated on schedule.
2. Do not let children come near or come into contact with children suspected of having measles; Wash hands frequently with soap when caring for children.
3. Keep your child's body, nose, throat, eyes and mouth clean every day. Make sure your house and toilet are clean and well-ventilated. Improve your child's nutrition.
4. Nursery schools, kindergartens, and schools with large concentrations of children must be kept clean and well-ventilated; toys, learning tools, and classrooms must be regularly disinfected with common disinfectants.
5. When detecting signs of fever, cough, runny nose, rash, it is necessary to isolate the child early and take him/her to the nearest medical facility for examination and timely treatment advice. Do not take the child for treatment beyond the level of the hospital when not necessary to avoid hospital overload and cross-infection in the hospital.