Malacanang on Thursday assured that the government is doing everything to control the spread of measles following reports that measles cases have also been on the rise outside of Manila. PCOO Sec. Coloma Jr. said that the increase in measles cases is not only experienced in the country but in other countries as well including Pakistan and several areas of the United States. Reports revealed that cases of measles have also been recorded in Luzon provinces, particularly in the Cordillera Region, Pangasinan, Region 4-A and Albay as well as in Western Visayas. Measles is easily spread through the air when an infected person talks, coughs or sneeze. People can also get sick when they come in contact with mucus or saliva of an infected person. Anyone who has not been vaccinated or has not had measles is at risk if they are exposed to the virus. Measles can also cause serious complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis. Measles infection in a pregnant woman can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or low birth weight baby. Children especially those between 6 to 18 months would need 2 doses of measles vaccine to prevent measles.
