The Nagaland Health department has intensified measles surveillance in Tizit, Mon, with a vaccination drive planned from October 12 following laboratory-confirmed cases.
DIMAPUR — Following the detection of laboratory-confirmed measles cases in Tizit Block, Mon district, the Health department has intensified surveillance, vaccination, awareness and interdepartmental coordination measures to contain the outbreak.
A block-level meeting was held at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Tizit, on September 21 under the leadership of Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Mon, Dr. Supongmenla Walling, and District Programme Manager Moie Bonnie Konyak.
According to a DIPR report, the meeting reviewed the outbreak situation and revision of the immunisation micro-plan, with health personnel directed to submit updated plans and lists of unvaccinated children.
A World Health Organisation (WHO) team subsequently visited Tizit for a field investigation and assessment. The team comprised Dr. MA H Azhar, Surveillance Medical Officer, WHO Mokokchung, and Dr. Jayaseelan Vedamuthu, Surveillance In-charge, Northeast region.
The team assessed the outbreak situation and supported ongoing surveillance and response measures in coordination with district health authorities.
Following the field visit, the WHO team and health officials met Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mon, Pakon Phom, to strengthen coordination on public awareness and dissemination of information to affected villages.
The ADC agreed to facilitate distribution of awareness materials through village authorities.
The Health department has scheduled a measles vaccination drive to commence by October 12, with awareness activities to precede the campaign.
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Children aged 5–10 years will be vaccinated through schools, while those below five will be covered through Anganwadi centres and home visits.
Authorities will also compile updated school enrolment data and lists of unvaccinated children to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Schools have been directed to promptly report students or staff exhibiting fever and rash or other suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility.
Individuals suspected or confirmed to have measles have been advised to remain at home or in appropriate isolation and avoid schools, workplaces, public gatherings and public transport while infectious, until cleared by health authorities.
The Health department has urged the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if fever accompanied by rash develops, while calling on parents, teachers, village authorities and community leaders to support awareness and vaccination efforts.