Editorial | Stumbling on measles
Summary
Measles has resurfaced in Sarlahi district of Nepal due to a vaccination gap and lack of awareness, threatening the country's goal of eradicating the disease by 2026.
Key Points
- Measles has re-emerged in Malangwa Municipality of Sarlahi district, infecting 23 children with 7 confirmed cases.
- The outbreak is caused by a vaccination gap and low public awareness despite free Measles-Rubella vaccine availability.
- Nepal has repeatedly missed its measles-elimination goals for 2019, 2023, and 2026 due to inadequate immunisation.
- The government has launched a vaccination drive for children under 15 following the outbreak to curb further spread.
