Belize investigating additional cases of measles

BELMOPAN, Belize, CMC – The Ministry of Health and Wellness in Belize says it is investigating additional suspected cases of measles linked to recent travel to Chihuahua, Mexico.

In a statement providing an update on the ongoing measles outbreak, the health ministry said that, as previously communicated, two cases of measles were confirmed through laboratory testing on April 12.

“Additionally, five clinically diagnosed cases were identified, all epidemiologically linked to one of the initial cases. Through heightened surveillance efforts, the MOHW is currently investigating additional suspected cases in Spanish Lookout, linked to travel to Chihuahua, Mexico.”

It said given these developments, the health ministry is strongly advising the public that there is ongoing measles transmission in the Spanish Lookout community, an upscale Mennonite agribusiness and industrial hub in Belize, urging “caution when visiting the area if you are not vaccinated.

“As investigations are ongoing, the number of positive cases remains undetermined at this time. Surveillance is ongoing, and the public will be kept informed accordingly,” the Ministry said, adding that to safeguard the health and well-being of the population, it is urging the public to get vaccinated.

The health ministry said children should receive two doses as part of routine immunisation at 12 and 18 months of age, while unvaccinated individuals over 18 months old should be given two doses, one month apart.

The ministry said that individuals who have received only one dose should get an additional booster dose and that persons unsure of their vaccination status should also receive one dose.

The ministry is urging travellers, 12 months and older, to ensure that they are vaccinated at least two weeks prior to travel, and that persons who have been exposed to measles should get vaccinated within three days of exposure to prevent infection.

The Ministry said that while measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and effective, it is not recommended for individuals who are currently pregnant, those with a severe allergy to a previous MMR vaccine dose and persons who are immunocompromised.

“The MOHW thanks the public for their cooperation in vaccine uptake and adherence to health guidelines. We remain committed to ensuring good health for the population and will continue to provide timely updates as new information emerges.”

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