Over 10,000 Measles Cases Reported in Kyrgyzstan
Measles Outbreak Continues in Kyrgyzstan: Over 10,000 Cases Reported
Bishkek – 10:57, 15 June 2024 – The Ministry of Health in Kyrgyzstan has reported a total of 10,798 cases of measles since the beginning of the year up to June 3. The highest number of cases were recorded in Bishkek, with 3,825 cases, followed by Chui region with 2,609 cases and Osh region with 1,542 cases.
According to the ministry, the majority of cases are still among children, with 36% of cases in the 1-4 age group, 31% in children under 1 year old, and 16% in children aged 5-9 years old.
In response to the outbreak, the Ministry of Health has initiated an additional immunization campaign in different regions of the country. The campaign began in Talas and Issyk-Kul regions on June 10, and in Batken and Naryn regions on June 13. Citizens are being vaccinated with the rubella-measles vaccine, with funds provided by the Outbreak Response Fund within the Measles and Rubella Initiative.
Despite a decrease in new measles cases reported each month, the virus remains active in the country. The main reason for the continued incidence is the high number of refusals of routine immunization against measles and rubella among both children and adults.
The Ministry of Health has reiterated the importance of vaccination, emphasizing that all children between 9 months and 7 years old must receive the vaccine, unless they have already received two doses during routine immunization. Vaccination is free of charge and available at Family Medicine Centers, Family Doctors Groups, medical and obstetric centers, and mobile vaccination points.
The ministry urged all eligible individuals to get vaccinated in order to help prevent the spread of measles and protect public health in Kyrgyzstan.
