BELIZE-Health authorities advise vigilance following measles cases.
BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – The Belize government Tuesday urged the public to remain vigilant about the risk of measles exposure associated with international travel and the recently identified cases within Belize. In a statement, the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) said that unvaccinated members of the public who live in or have traveled recently […]
Black News 
BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – The Belize government Tuesday urged the public to remain vigilant about the risk of measles exposure associated with international travel and the recently identified cases within Belize.
In a statement, the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) said that unvaccinated members of the public who live in or have traveled recently to border communities are at an increased risk of getting measles.
It said that since the beginning of this year, eight measles cases have been identified in the country, with additional suspected cases currently under review. The ministry said it is continuing to monitor the situation closely and has strengthened surveillance and response measures nationwide.
“Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads rapidly through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with an infected person. Measles is a serious illness, especially in children under the age of five, “the ministry said.
It said that symptoms may include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash that typically begins on the face and then spreads to the body. The ministry said symptoms can appear between seven and 21 days after exposure to an infected person.
The MoHW said that persons who believe they may have been exposed to measles should contact the nearest health center.
