Outbreak of Measles in Negros Oriental
The Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO) have confirmed the outbreak of measles in Negros Oriental. Hitting seven towns including Dumaguete City, Bacong, Mabinay, San Jose, Siaton, Valencia and Santa Catalina.
What are Measles?
Measles are a common and highly contagious infection in the respiratory caused by a certain virus. It is also known in some places as rubeola. In the Philippines, measles is usually known in the dialect term as “tigdas”.
Symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny Nose
- Total Skin Rash
- Sore Throat
- Reddish Eyes
The full body rash of measles breaks out 3-5 days after symptoms begin. It can coincide with high fevers up to 104°F (40°C). The forehead is where the reddish-brown rash usually first shows up. It then spreads to the rest of the face, then to the neck and torso, then to the arms, legs, and feet when it becomes a more serious matter.
Elimination Phase of Measles in Negros Oriental
During an interview with Dr. Leilan Estacion of Integrated Provincial Health Office , she has confirmed to our relief that there have been no measles-related deaths in the areas yet. Health Assistant Secretary Eric Tayag also confirmed that they are in the elimination phase of tigdas or measles in Negros Oriental. Measles vaccines have been scheduled in various barangays of the affected areas to decrease the spread of the virus infection.
Some speculations of the health officers that may have made the outbreak includes the colder temperatures in the certain seven areas of Negros Oriental. This then may have been the cause of easily catching colds, fevers, and coughs.
