Health authorities order immediate reporting of suspected measles cases

All medical professionals must immediately report any suspected cases of measles through the national surveillance system following a directive from the Ministry of Health.

Patients presenting with symptoms such as fever and skin rashes require prompt notification to health authorities for monitoring and response, according to Epidemiology Unit Community Physician Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana. Doctors in private hospitals should refer such patients to government facilities for further management and tracking.

Vaccination remains the most effective method to prevent the spread of the disease. Infants between nine months and three years of age need at least one dose of the measles vaccine, while children between three and 15 years must complete both doses.

The public should seek immediate medical attention if they or their children develop fever accompanied by a rash. Two new cases were reported last month, marking the first detections since January of the previous year, though these cases did not originate within the country.