19 Measles Cases Confirmed in Belize

The Ministry of Health and Wellness has confirmed 19 cases of measles in Belize so far this year. Four cases were confirmed in October in the Cayo District.

The Ministry says all of the patients have recovered. Contact tracing, ring vaccination and community outreach are continuing.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that can cause serious, long-term complications, the Ministry said. Symptoms usually start 7 to 21 days after contact with an infected person, beginning with a high fever, runny nose and red eyes. A rash then starts at the hairline and spreads to the chest, back and limbs, and the rest of the body. People are contagious from four days before the rash appears until four days after.

The Ministry says the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine is safe and highly effective and that two doses provide lifetime immunity. It is urging all unvaccinated people to go to the nearest health facility to get vaccinated.

Anyone with a fever and rash, or who suspects measles, should go to a health facility or call the Ministry’s hotline at 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273).