DAVAO CITY –— The Ministry of Health in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) is expanding its vaccination program to arrested the measles outbreak in the region.
The expanded program was called after the Bangsamoro government recorded 592 cases of measles from January 1 to March 20, 2024, the number reflected that 521 are unvaccinated, and 71 are vaccinated.
The province of Lanao del Sur reported the highest record with 220 cases, making up 37% of the region’s total cases with two fatalities listed while another death was recorded in Sulu.
The outbreak prompted the Health Ministry to undertake an extensive vaccination activities starting in April, following the outbreak declaration to ensure that residents will have access to the measles vaccination, thus protecting them from this infectious disease.
“In response to the growing threat of the outbreak, MOH will undertake an expansion of vaccination activities in Bangsamoro communities to ensure a larger proportion of the Bangsamoro children is vaccinated against measles,” Dr. Zul Qarneyn Abas, the deputy health Minister said.
Measles is a serious and potentially dangerous virus that can spread rapidly in areas with low vaccination rates and poses a significant public health risk.
It can affect anyone but is most common in children and spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. It can cause severe disease, complications, and even death.
Abas urges Bangsamoro residents to ensure they are up to date on their measles vaccinations and remain vigilant to protect themselves and their families.
“We urge Bangsamoro parents to vaccinate their children against measles. This remains the most effective defense against the virus. By working with us, we can minimize the spread of this preventable disease,” Abas said.
MOH is also working closely with healthcare providers, schools, local partners, media, and other stakeholders to raise awareness of the importance of measles vaccination and prevent further transmission of the virus.
The health ministry emphasized that vaccination is a safe, halal, and proven method to prevent measles and its potentially serious consequences.-with a report from BIO
