Vaccine hesitancy likely cause of measles outbreak in Senapati
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIO

Senapati, August 01 2025: Amid detection of measles cases at different localities in and around Senapati town, the district administration convened a multi-stakeholder meeting-cum-awareness programme at the DRDA conference hall, here, on Friday to chalk up strategies for coordinated response.

The goal is to control the spread of infection and address vaccine hesitancy, which has contributed significantly to the current situation.

The meeting had representatives from the health department, ICDS, schools, civil society organisations, churches, and religious leaders.

The outbreak status as of July 31 is 54 suspected cases reported (June-July) with 11 confirmed, six testing negative and 18 pending results.

The clusters are identified in Council River Colony, Phyamai Vabuh; TNK Gate, Yapao Colony, DV School area and Road to Emesiiphro, Mt Everest area.

Alarmingly, 10 of the 11 confirmed cases had not received a single dose of the Measles vaccine.

A rapid survey of these areas revealed large gaps in immunisation.

In Mt Everest area, 28 per cent were found not vaccinated and 57 per cent partially vaccinated.

Other areas like Yapao Colony and Old Monday Market also reported high percentages of children missing full immunisation.

It may be mentioned that measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through droplets and remains airborne for up to two hours after an infected person leaves.

Symptoms includes fever, rash, cough, runny nose, and red eyes (conjunctivitis) and also a person is infectious four days before and after the rash appears Complications may include pneumonia, diarrhoea, blindness, encephalitis, and even death.

It causes immune amnesia, erasing past immune memory and making individuals more vulnerable to other infections.

The tragic deaths of 16 children during a measles outbreak in Mumbai slums (Dec 2022) highlight what can happen when immunisation is neglected.

In response to the measles outbreak in Senapati, various stakeholders have been assigned to carry preventive measures.

The health department has been entrusted to investigate, treat, and mass vaccinate children aged 9 months to 5 years; schools & ICDS to conduct surveillance, report, mobilise, and hold awareness campaigns; and religious leaders and CSOs advised to promote vaccination, debunk myths, and support families.

The district administration urged all stakeholders and citizens to stand united, promote vaccination, and prevent further loss.

"This is a shared responsibility.

Let us act now to protect our children and prevent future outbreaks," he said.

For more information, all concerned have been advised to contact office of the deputy commissioner, Senapati or office of chief medical officer, Senapati.

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