Employees at the Pohang Buk District Health Center located in Pohang, North Gyeongsang, posted an announcement at the entryway detailing potential signs of measles on January 14, 2019. [NEWS1]
On Wednesday, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) advised individuals who traveled back from nations witnessing measles outbreaks over the May holiday period to stay alert for symptoms for the next three weeks.
Authorities recommended that individuals exhibiting signs like fever or rashes should put on masks, practice rigorous personal cleanliness, and seek out a healthcare center right away.
The outbreak of measles persists in nations like Vietnam, the Philippines, China, and Cambodia.
The KDCA cautioned that the likelihood of imported infections has escalated due to heightened international travel after the relaxation of social distancing guidelines.
As of Saturday, South Korea reported 52 confirmed measles cases for this year, which represents a 1.3 times rise compared to the 39 cases recorded during the corresponding timeframe last year. Despite being recognized as a nation that has attained measles elimination status, these figures stand out as the most significant since 2019.
Out of the 52 patients, 36 individuals—equivalent to 69.2 percent—acquired the virus outside their home country, with Vietnam being the leading origin for infections at 33 cases.
The origins of these cases also encompass Uzbekistan, Thailand, and Italy. The remaining 16 individuals acquired measles in Korea via subsequent transmission within their households or healthcare facilities following exposure to imported infections.
Measles Rash Cases Reported [JOONGANG ILBO]
Adults make up 73.1 percent of the patients, or 38 people.
Out of all the cases, 32 — which represents 61.5 percent — involved individuals who were either not vaccinated or uncertain about their vaccination status.
According to the World Health Organization, there has been a worldwide upsurge in measles cases. This year, the numbers stand at 766 in the Philippines, 577 in China, 544 in Cambodia, and 151 in Vietnam within the Western Pacific region.
The KDCA advises that individuals who have visited a country experiencing a measles outbreak and start showing symptoms within three weeks of their return should limit interactions with others and use a mask upon seeking medical care at health facilities.
The agency likewise highlighted the importance of extra precautions among vulnerable populations including infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Health officials additionally urged healthcare providers to notify public health centers of any potential instances and to swiftly quarantine those affected.
Infant care clinics must confirm that their personnel have been administered two doses of the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, and guarantee that all necessary additional doses are up to date.
Measles is a very infectious respiratory disease that can readily spread via touch and airborne particles.
On May 2, travelers fill up Terminal 1 at Incheon International Airport before a four-day break. [NEWS1]
The condition can be avoided via vaccination; it is advised to administer two doses of the MMR vaccine, first when infants are between 12 to 15 months old, and then from ages 4 to 6. Additionally, babies aged 6 to 11 months who will travel internationally ought to receive their vaccination as well.
“Please stay alert to measles symptoms for three weeks after returning from overseas travel to protect both yourself and your family,” said KDCA Commissioner Jee Young-mee. “If you notice any suspicious symptoms, visit a healthcare facility promptly, inform them of your travel history, and receive appropriate treatment.
“We also advise travelers to check their vaccination status before visiting measles-affected countries. Infants between 6 and 11 months should be vaccinated before departure. Medical institutions should immediately identify suspected measles cases following overseas travel and cooperate with public health authorities to prevent further transmission.”
Translated from the JoongAng Ilbo using generative AI and edited by Korea JoongAng Daily staff.
BY CHO MUN-GYU [paik.jihwan@joongang.co.kr]
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