Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Sep 12: Cases of Measles are increasing in Dakshina Kannada (DK) district. Close to 150 cases are already recorded. The health department is trying to control the spread of the disease through second phase mission Indradhanush.
It was assumed that measles are seen only in children. However, this year it has affected youth also. In addition, the pace of spreading is faster than that of Covid. This has become a challenge to the health department.
Last year, 81 people got admitted to hospitals in DK due to measles. However, this year, as per stats on first week of September, 299 people are admitted to hospital and 141 cases of measles were confirmed. Eight cases of Rubella are also reported. Last year in Mangaluru, out of 40, two people had tested positive for measles. This year out of 176 cases, 76 measles cases were confirmed.
The affected people include a 10-month-old baby as well as a 33-year-old youth. The blood test for measles is undertaken at only two places in Karnataka. That is why the test reports are getting delayed.
Dr Rajesh, DK health officer said, “Cases of measles are on the rise. Laziness to take vaccine is worsening the situation. We are making people aware to take two doses of vaccines. However, many take only one and delay in taking the second one. That is why the cases are increasing. We are holding vaccination campaign too.”