Measles in Pohnpei
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Pohnpei, FSM (June 6, 2014) – There have been four cases of measles in the FSM State of Pohnpei in the past weeks.
Just last month, there were two cases reported in the State of Kosrae. Authorities in neighboring islands are scrambling to prepare their residents in case the outbreak continues to spread.
Measles can be potentially harmful to children. Symptoms of the disease are similar to that of the common cold, along with severe rashes. In some cases the disease can be fatal.
A concern now is the upcoming Micro Games, which is scheduled to be held this July in Pohnpei. Along with the athletes from throughout Micronesia, Pohnpei is expecting a large number of visitors to participate in the 8th Micro Games. Anyone traveling to Pohnpei should confirm that they have been vaccinated for measles.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) advises that: “Children should receive two doses of Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine, with the first dose given at 1 year of age or older and dose #2 given between 4-6 years of age.”
Additional reading: "Measles in FSM"
Sources:
- Pacific News Center. "DPHSS Issues Advisory on Measles Outbreak in Pohnpei".
- PDN. "Pohnpei measles outbreak prompts warning on Guam".