Vietnam records first adult measles death of the year
VOV.VN - The Institute of Clinical Medicine for Tropical Diseases under Bach Mai Hospital has confirmed the first adult death from measles in 2025.
The patient, who had underlying conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes, was admitted in critical condition with severe lung complications. Despite undergoing blood filtration and ECMO treatment, the patient passed away after two weeks of intensive care.
The hospital is currently treating 10–20 adult measles patients daily, most of whom present with symptoms such as fever, rash, cough, and watery eyes and nose.
Several patients have developed serious complications, including pneumonia, respiratory failure, elevated liver enzymes, diarrhea, and even encephalitis and meningitis. Most had either never received the measles vaccine or had not received a booster dose.
Measles cases are being reported primarily among people aged 30 to 50, many of whom do not suspect they have the disease and seek medical attention only when their condition worsens.
Health experts warn that measles is not limited to children and can severely affect adults, especially those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems.
As a highly contagious but preventable disease, measles can be effectively controlled through vaccination. Under the national expanded immunization program, children receive their first measles shot at nine months of age, with a booster administered at 18 months or two years old.
Adults with weakened immunity are also advised to get a booster dose. Those who have not been vaccinated or are uncertain about their vaccination history should receive the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
The Ministry of Health emphasizes that the measles vaccine is safe and effective. Full and timely vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps prevent outbreaks in the wider community.
97% of children in Hanoi vaccinated against measles
VOV.VN - As of March 31, a total of 24,425 of children aged between six and nine in Hanoi have been vaccinated against measles, meeting 97% of the target, according to the capital’s Department of Health.
Hanoi sees surge in measles cases, mostly among unvaccinated children
VOV.VN - Hanoi has recorded 1,320 measles cases since early 2024, with 64% of patients being children under five and 83% either unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated.
