No measles fatality yet, DOH clarifies

The measles outbreak in several areas in the country has yet to claim its first fatality contrary to an earlier pronouncement by the Department of Health (DOH). Dr. Eric Tayag of the DOH’s National Epidemiology Center (NEC) said the patient that was earlier reported to have died from the airborne disease was found out to be still alive. "NEC verified [the reported] death and found out that patient is alive therefore there are still no deaths," he said in a text message shown in a report over GMA News' "24 Oras." Tayag was correcting his earlier statement that one person had already died from measles. Tayag said the government is closely monitoring the area where the supposed death was reported. "The children may get measles from the same area two to three weeks after. That’s why we are monitoring it," he said.

A total of 669 cases of measles have been recorded from January 1 to February 5, with 309 coming from Metro Manila alone. Eleven areas have been reported to have measles outbreak: Manila, Alabang, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Tarlac, Quezon province, Rizal, Masbate, Iloilo, Lanao del Sur, and Cavite. Close monitoring of day care centers, schools, and hospitals are now being implemented to prevent the disease from further spreading. Among the symptoms of measles are fever, general weakness, and, in some cases, red eyes. These usually come before the characteristic skin rash confirming the onset of measles. Tayag appealed to parents to avail of the government's free vaccination for their children. He also advised the public to wear face masks to avoid the spread of the virus. Isolation of patients with measles is also encouraged. - KBK, GMANews.TV