Hadramout: Measles Cases Exceed 1,000 Children
The Office of the Ministry of Public Health and Population in Hadramout Valley and Desert issued an urgent appeal today to parents, urging them to promptly vaccinate their children and head immediately to the nearest health facility—especially for those who have not yet received the measles vaccine.
This appeal comes amid a significant outbreak of measles since the beginning of the year, with reported cases surpassing 1,000 children, raising concerns about the resurgence of the disease after years of relative control.
In its statement, the office reported five deaths among infected children, in addition to around 150 children being hospitalized due to severe complications that nearly claimed their lives. This marks one of the most serious outbreaks the region has witnessed for the first time since 1988.
The statement further noted that more than 95% of the infected children were unvaccinated, reflecting low immunization coverage and increasing the risk of further spread among children.
The Health Office emphasized that responding to this appeal is a shared responsibility, stressing that children’s health is a trust placed upon families. It affirmed that the measles vaccine is safe, free of charge, and available at all health centers and units.
It also highlighted that all health facilities and clinics across the Valley and Desert districts are fully prepared to receive children and provide the necessary vaccinations, calling on parents not to delay immunizing their children in order to protect their lives and curb the spread of the disease.
