Shillong, Apr 20: In response to a suspected rise in measles risk linked to the ongoing outbreak in neighboring Bangladesh, authorities in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills district have issued a public health alert, urging heightened surveillance and immediate reporting of suspected cases.
Officials have directed all departments—particularly schools and ICDS-run Anganwadi centres—to remain vigilant and act swiftly to prevent a potential outbreak. The advisory emphasizes that any individual, regardless of age, presenting with fever and rash symptoms must be treated as a suspected measles case and reported immediately to the nearest health facility, Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM), or medical officer.
The move comes amid growing concern over cross-border transmission, with health authorities stressing the importance of early detection and rapid response.
Key Measures:
1.Schools and Anganwadi centres must report any suspected measles case without delay to local health authorities.
2. Strict Isolation Protocols:
Children showing symptoms are to be barred from attending school or Anganwadi centres until full recovery. Home isolation with minimal contact is strongly advised.
3. Enhanced Coordination:
Institutions have been instructed to maintain close coordination with the Health Department and the World Health Organization for timely investigation and containment.
4. Active Surveillance:
Teachers and Anganwadi workers are being sensitized to identify symptoms early. Daily monitoring for fever and rash cases has been made mandatory.
Health officials warn that measles, being highly contagious, can spread rapidly if early signs are ignored. The district administration has urged the public to cooperate with health advisories and report symptoms promptly to prevent escalation.
