A measles outbreak has been identified at the Lady Ridgeway Hospital for Children, with four confirmed cases, according to Dr. Deepal Perera, a Consultant Paediatrician at the hospital. Speaking to the media, Dr. Perera disclosed that as of Monday (10), 12 children have displayed symptoms of measles, with four cases officially diagnosed.
Measles symptoms encompass high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a characteristic rash known as the Measles rash, as explained by Dr. Perera. He further revealed that among the children exhibiting symptoms, some had not received the MMR vaccine for measles.
The MMR vaccine, which is administered free of charge at 9 months and 3 years of age, is strongly recommended by Dr. Perera to ensure the health and safety of children. He emphasized the importance of parents ensuring their children receive these vaccines to prevent the spread of measles and safeguard against potential complications.
Dr. Deepal Perera issued a warning regarding the significant increase in measles cases observed in recent days. He urged parents to remain vigilant and stressed the potential severity of health complications that could arise for children affected by the disease.
In light of the outbreak, he reiterated the necessity for parents to promptly seek the MMR vaccine for their children, underscoring its role in preventing adverse health consequences associated with measles.
