Measles epidemic shows no sign of abating in Hanoi

15:09' 06/02/2009 (GMT+7)

VietNamNet Bridge - The number of people infected with measles continues to increase in Hanoi, mainly among students and pupils. According to Dr Do Si Hien, chairman of the National Expanded Programme for Immunisation (EPI), the increase in the number of adults infected with measles is normal in those countries including Vietnam, which have implemented a measles vaccination programme well. However, Mr Hien added that the number of infected people will increase and spread to other localities if drastic measures are not taken. To limit the spread of the disease, the Hanoi Hygiene and Epidemiology Institute and the EPI held a working session with Hanoi’s health department to help the community to learn more about preventive measures, and proper treatment against the disease. Around 700,000 students and pupils are expected to get vaccinated against measles in the coming days. According to Nguyen Hong Ha, deputy head of the National Hospital for Infectious and Tropical Diseases, the measles virus can develop quickly, especially through the respiratory system. Therefore, people aged under 40 should get vaccinated. For patients experiencing symptoms such as high fever, families should isolate them, clean their houses and ensure safe water sources.