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Ulan Bator, May 25, 2025: Mongolia is grappling with a significant measles outbreak, as the total number of confirmed cases has soared past 3,000. According to the country’s National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), 114 new infections were reported in the past 24 hours, bringing the national caseload to 3,042.
Health authorities report that 95 more patients have recovered, raising the total number of recoveries to 1,904. However, the outbreak continues to be a cause for concern, particularly among school-age children. Mongolian doctors note that more than half of the latest confirmed cases occurred in children who had received only one dose of the measles vaccine.
The NCCD has urged parents to ensure their children receive both recommended doses of the measles vaccine. “Two doses of the vaccine are recommended to ensure immunity and prevent outbreaks, as not all children develop immunity from the first dose,” the agency advised.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease, transmitted primarily through respiratory droplets and direct contact. Common symptoms include high fever, dry cough, runny nose, sore throat, and inflamed eyes, with complications that can be severe or even fatal, especially in unvaccinated children.
The World Health Organization highlights that measles can affect anyone but is most common and most dangerous in young children and pregnant women. Immunization remains the most effective way to prevent infection and halt the spread of the disease. Despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine, measles continues to cause significant illness and death worldwide, with an estimated 107,500 deaths in 2023, mostly among children under five.
Mongolia had previously achieved measles elimination status in 2014, following years of high vaccination coverage and robust surveillance. However, gaps in immunity—particularly among children who have not received the full two-dose regimen—have left the population vulnerable to outbreaks.
Health officials are intensifying public awareness campaigns to promote complete vaccination, aiming to close immunity gaps and prevent further spread of the disease.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information available as of May 25, 2025, from official statements and news reports. The situation may evolve, and readers are encouraged to consult local health authorities or the World Health Organization for the latest updates and guidance on measles prevention and vaccination.
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