Severe complications in many children

Nine-month-old Bo from Hanoi initially had a fever and cough and was diagnosed with an ear infection at a local clinic. However, after two days, his condition worsened as he developed a high fever, lethargy, and breathing difficulties.

By the time he was hospitalized, one of his lungs had already collapsed, and he required continuous ventilator support. His family had not anticipated the severity of the disease, and since he had not been vaccinated, his condition became critical.

Similarly, Thu Thuong from Hai Phong has been in the hospital for over two weeks due to measles complications but has yet to show significant improvement.

Measles is a dangerous disease

According to Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, former head of the HCM City Paediatrics Hospital No 1’s Infection and Neurology Department, measles is an acute infectious disease transmitted through the respiratory tract. It can cause high fever, pneumonia, encephalitis, respiratory failure, and even death, especially in unvaccinated children. Additionally, children who recover from measles often suffer from malnutrition and weakened immunity, making them more susceptible to other illnesses.

While mild measles cases can be managed at home, parents must monitor their child’s condition closely, ensure proper nutrition, and watch for warning signs such as rapid breathing, seizures, and lethargy. If any of these symptoms appear, immediate medical attention is necessary.

A common misconception is that measles patients should avoid wind and water, but this can worsen their discomfort and lead to poor sleep and reduced appetite, further weakening their immune system. Instead, parents should clean their child’s body with warm water and ensure proper ventilation to prevent secondary pneumonia infections.

Given the complex measles outbreak, parents should have their children vaccinated from six months of age. If unsure whether a child has received the vaccine, they should opt for a booster shot, as the measles vaccine is safe.

Since diagnosing measles in children under 12 months can be challenging, doctors recommend they receive supplemental vaccinations for added protection.

Additionally, since diagnosing measles in children under 12 months can be challenging, doctors recommend they receive supplemental vaccinations for added protection.

Health Ministry receives vaccines for measles vaccination campaign

VOV.VN - Vietnam Vaccine Joint Stock Company (VNVC) on March 17 donated 500,000 doses of measles vaccine to the Ministry of Health (MoH), in an effort to swiftly control the outbreak and prevent its widespread transmission across the country.