Officials with the Zamboanga City Health Office 101 suspected measles cases in January, which represents a significant increase (1343 percent) compared to Jan. 2017, according to a Zamboanga Today report.
Sangali and Calarian barangays (villages) reported the most cases.
The number of measles cases reported exceeds outbreak threshold levels and health officials will strengthen advocacy campaigns to help convince parents to allow their children to be immunized to prevent infections.
Also in Mindanao, in Health Region 11 (DoH 11), which includes Davao City, 317 suspected cases of measles, including 14 deaths were recorded from January 1, 2017 to January 19, 2018.
The Manila Times reports that the Dengvaxia controversy has affected immunization acceptance among parents.
Philippines Dengvaxia investigation: 3 children died due to dengue despite being vaccinated
The parents are apprehensive that the anti-measles vaccines might have the same effect as Dengvaxia that is suspected to be the cause of the death of a dozen children in Luzon.
The Philippines reported 781 measles cases during the first nine months of 2017.
Related:
- Norovirus outbreak rises by 11, KCDC implements many measures
- Minnesota investigates two human Salmonella cases linked to Raws for Paws pet food
- Guinea reports 1st Lassa fever case since 1996
- Denmark investigates hepatitis A outbreak, dates suspected
- Measles confirmed in Pittsburgh area
