WHO says COVID-19 is a major factor in the decline of the Measles vaccine
The World Health Organization (WHO) says measles vaccinations have dropped dramatically since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, leading to a high rate of nearly 40 million child deaths. Last year’s vaccine.
In a report released on Wednesday, WHO and CDC said that millions of children are now infected with measles, one of the most infectious diseases in the world. In 2021, officials said there were about nine million measles cases and 128,000 deaths worldwide.
AP reports that the WHO and CDC said that the continued decline in vaccinations was due to COVID-19, in addition to the ongoing outbreak in 20 countries, which means that “wound disease is an imminent threat in all regions of the world.”
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Scientists say that at least 95% of the population must be vaccinated to protect themselves from infectious diseases; WHO and CDC reported that only about 81 percent of children receive their first dose of the measles vaccine. It further said 71% receive their second dose, marking the lowest global primary coverage rate since 2008.
Cause of Measles Spread
Measles spreads mainly through direct contact or air and causes symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and a rash on the face and upper neck.
Complications, including brain swelling and dehydration, cause deaths from this disease. WHO said serious problems are more serious in children under the age of five and adults over 30.
More than 95% of measles cases occur in developing countries, mainly in Asia and Africa. There is no particular treatment for measles, but the dual-dose measles vaccine is about 97% effective in preventing severe disease and death.
In July, the UN said 25 million children had missed routine vaccinations against diseases such as diphtheria, mainly because the coronavirus had disrupted regular health services or fueled misinformation about vaccines.
