Laboratory-confirmed measles cases have been detected in Tizit Block of Mon district, prompting the Health Department to intensify surveillance and prepare a vaccination drive.
A block-level meeting was held at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Tizit, on September 21 to review the outbreak situation and revise the immunisation micro-plan.
Health personnel from health units under Tizit Block were directed to update immunisation plans and prepare lists of unvaccinated children to facilitate vaccination activities.
Following the meeting, a team from the World Health Organization (WHO) visited Tizit Block to conduct a field investigation and assess the outbreak situation in coordination with district health authorities.
The team comprised Dr M.A.H. Azhar, Surveillance Medical Officer, WHO Mokokchung, and Dr Jayaseelan Vedamuthu, Surveillance In-charge, Northeast Region.
The WHO team and health officials subsequently met the district administration, represented by Additional Deputy Commissioner Mon, Pakon Phom, to strengthen coordination on public awareness activities and dissemination of information to affected villages.
As part of the response, the Health Department has scheduled a measles vaccination drive to commence by October 12. Children aged five to 10 years will be vaccinated through schools, while children below five years will be covered through Anganwadi centres and home visits.
Updated school enrolment data and lists of unvaccinated children will also be compiled as part of the immunisation planning.
Schools have been directed to promptly report students or staff showing symptoms such as fever and rash to the nearest health facility. Individuals suspected or confirmed to have measles have been advised to remain at home or in appropriate isolation while infectious and avoid schools, workplaces, public gatherings and public transport until cleared by the competent health authority.
The Health Department has urged the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if fever accompanied by a rash develops.
The information released by the department did not specify the number of laboratory-confirmed cases or the villages currently affected.
