Measles-rubella cases up 35%

MANILA, Philippines — Up to 922 cases of measles-rubella have been reported in the first two months of this year, according to the Department of Health.

Data from the DOH showed the figure, reported from Jan. 1 to March 1, is 35 percent higher than the 683 cases logged during the same period in 2024.

Regions that reported a continued increase in the cases from Feb. 2 to March 1 were Ilocos, Bicol, Western Visayas and Soccsksargen as well as the Cordilleras and the National Capital Region.

Health officials said that 625 or 68 percent of patients that contracted the disease are children who did not receive complete vaccination against measles.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through the air through breathing, coughing or sneezing.

“A child with measles can infect 16 children, that is why it is important to stop the spread of the disease,” Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said.

The DOH warned that if left untreated, measles could lead to serious medical conditions such as pneumonia, brain swelling or death.

The health department said complications could be avoided if a patient is vaccinated against measles.

“This illness can be prevented through the use of MMR vaccines. Visit the nearest health center so your children can get vaccinated,” Herbosa said, referring to measles, mumps, rubella.

Vaccination against measles, mumps and rubella for children aged nine months to one year has been ongoing in health centers nationwide, the DOH said.

“Catch-up immunization against measles will be conducted this month for children aged one year and one month to four years and 11 months in select regions, including Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Soccsksargen and Bangsamoro,” the health agency said.

The immunization campaign targets children who have not received or completed their MMR vaccine.

“It is important for a child to receive two doses of measles vaccine. Parents or guardians should coordinate with the nearest health center to check the vaccination schedule in their area,” the DOH said.