Expert warns of measles surge in twin cities

ISLAMABAD:

A medical expert has expressed serious concern over the rising number of measles cases, warning that the highly infectious disease is no longer confined to young children and is increasingly affecting adolescents as well.

Speaking to a local news channel, child health specialist Professor Dr Syed Jamal Raza highlighted a surge in measles cases in Karachi and stressed the urgent need to raise immunity levels among children. He called on the government to ensure the administration of two mandatory doses of the measles vaccine to all newborns to curb the spread of the disease.

Dr Raza urged parents and caregivers to ensure that every child completes the full vaccination schedule, cautioning that incomplete immunisation leaves children vulnerable to infection. He emphasised that timely vaccination remains the most effective tool to prevent measles outbreaks.

In addition to vaccination, he underscored the importance of strengthening children's overall immunity through proper nutrition, good hygiene practices and regular health check-ups, noting that these measures play a crucial role in protecting against infectious diseases.

Concluding his remarks, Dr Raza advised parents to remain vigilant and proactive by ensuring complete vaccination, maintaining healthy diets for their children and seeking prompt medical consultation if symptoms appear.