The resurgence of measles cases has sparked concern across Hanoi as the city records alarming numbers this year. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) Hanoi reported 209 measles infections across 29 districts, marking a significant increase compared to the same period last year.
The CDC's breakdown of the figures indicates troubling trends among various age groups, underscoring the need for immediate response. Of the reported cases, there are 58 among children under 9 months, 33 between 9 to 11 months, and 32 from 12 to 24 months. Notably, there are also 31 cases among children aged 25 to 60 months, and 55 infections reported for those over 60 months. This data reveals not only the current scale of the outbreak but also highlights the infection’s reach across all age demographics.
According to CDC Hanoi, the increasing trend of cases is mostly attributed to individuals who have not received vaccinations or have only been partially vaccinated. "CDC Hà Nội nhận định, số ca mắc sởi đang có xu hướng gia tăng nhanh, ghi nhận rải rác trên địa bàn, chủ yếu ở người chưa tiêm chủng vaccine hoặc chưa được tiêm đầy đủ," stated the health authority. This significant gap in vaccination is raising alarms, with experts predicting more cases could surface, particularly among vulnerable populations—namely, children under the age of one and those over five years.
The health authorities have noticed patterns of measles cases primarily manifesting itself sporadically in districts, prompting urgent interventions. The detailed surveillance is currently focused on high-risk areas like Phú Đô, Nam Từ Liêm, Giang Biên, Long Biên, and Hạ Đình, Thanh Xuân. These locations have been highlighted for intensified monitoring and education efforts aimed at promoting vaccination.
While efforts are underway for measles control, other health issues are also being documented. During the same reporting period, Hanoi recorded 317 cases of dengue fever. This figure reflects a notable drop—291 fewer cases than the previous week. So far, the cumulative number of dengue cases for 2024 stands at 8,749. Despite the reduction, the simultaneous rise of measles cases adds layers of complexity to public health management for the city.
Hanoi has also observed incidents of hand-foot-mouth disease with 26 reported cases, summing up to 2,474 cases since the onset of the year. The concurrency of these health challenges places added strain on public health services and resources at all levels.
CDC Hanoi has been proactive, collaborating with various stakeholders to monitor, investigate, and treat outbreaks. Their strategy encompasses not only surveillance but also encouraging vaccination against measles, as underscored by their recent initiatives concerning other vaccine-preventable diseases like diphtheria and tetanus (Td). Current vaccination drives are being coordinated across different districts such as Bắc Từ Liêm, Đông Anh, and others to bolster the immunization rate among the young population.
Looking forward, the CDC has signaled readiness to maintain these efforts, intensifying surveillance for measles outbreaks particularly at places like Thượng Thanh, Long Biên, and Xuân La, Tây Hồ. Such vigilance is deemed necessary to prevent the transmission of the highly infectious virus among vulnerable groups.
Health experts continue to urge parents to vaccinate their children fully as measles is not only preventable but can lead to serious complications if left unchecked. Increased awareness and participation are considered pivotal to overcoming this public health hurdle.
The current scenario serves as a reminder of the importance of community health measures and vaccination programs. The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated as the CDC warns of the potential repercussions of failing to act decisively against this rising trend of measles cases.