Measles outbreak in Kerala: 160 cases registered in Malappuram, parents urged to get children vaccinated

Kerala is witnessing a measles outbreak with over 160 registered cases so far from Malappuram district alone. State health minister Veena George said that adequate action is being taken against the outbreak while the Kerala Government has asked parents to ensure measles vaccination of their children without fail. No casualties have been reported in the state so far.

Measles also known as ancham pani in local parlance, mainly affects children aged between 9 months and 5 years. It may affect teenagers and adults as well. The Union Health Ministry on Wednesday asked states to consider administering an additional dose of measles and rubella vaccines (MR vaccine) to all children of the vulnerable age group in the affected areas.

Veena George said the department is taking stringent measures for the prevention of the disease and an Additional Director (public health) has been sent to Malappuram for coordinating preventive measures.