Measles on the rise worldwide

It is due to the drastic reduction of children vaccinated against measles worldwide.
Resistance to vaccination during the COVID-19 pandemic has led many parents worldwide to opt not to vaccinate their children with the regular MMR1 and MMR2 vaccines, which protect against measles, mumps, and rubella. The relatively high percentage of unvaccinated individuals now paves the way for the virus to spread globally. In 2022, there was already an 18% increase compared to 2021, 64% in 2023 compared to 2022, and in 2024, the infection is accelerating, making it inevitable that measles will soon reach Aruba.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases caused by the morbillivirus. This virus is easily transmitted through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus enters the body through the nose, mouth, or eyes. It infects the respiratory system, and then spreads throughout the body, causing fever, cough, runny nose, and rash all over the body. The disease can affect people of all ages and cause severe complications and even death.

Given that Aruba receives many tourists from different continents and countries, Aruba may receive an imported case of measles at any time. The USA, where most tourists come from, reported 206 cases; Europe has 695 confirmed cases as of March 2024, and the Caribbean region has two confirmed cases.

The Department of Public Health (DVG) is closely monitoring these global developments and continues to hold meetings with various partners to work on a plan to mitigate measles in Aruba. In the coming days, DVG will inform the community more about the development of measles and the steps Aruba is taking to prepare for it.
For more information, like our Facebook page Directie Volksgezondheid DVG Aruba, follow us on Instagram at directie_volksgezondheid_aruba, visit our website at www.dvg.aw, call us at 5224200, or email us at servicio@dvg.aw.