By Mariela Angella Oladive
The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) has confirmed three measles cases in the province, with infections recorded in Ajuy, Cabatuan, and Pototan.
While all three patients have recovered, health officials are urging parents to have their children vaccinated to prevent further cases.
IPHO head Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon said the cases were among 37 specimens sent to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine for confirmation.
Confirmed Cases
The first case involved a 31-year-old unvaccinated salesboy from Culasi, Ajuy, who traveled to Manila a week before being admitted to a district hospital.
He exhibited symptoms such as fever, sore throat, white spots in the mouth, body rashes, and diarrhea.
Health authorities identified two close contacts, but neither developed symptoms.
The second case was a 16-year-old male from Barangay Bungco, Pototan, with no travel history.
However, his sibling had recently returned from Manila and later exhibited measles-like symptoms, establishing an epidemiological link.
Six other individuals connected to the case developed rashes, but specimens were not collected as their symptoms had subsided by the time the case was reported.
The third case was an 11-month-old baby girl from Cabatuan who had received only one dose of the measles-containing vaccine.
Her parents had no travel history, and health officials found no close contacts.
Measles Risks and Vaccination Gap
Measles is a highly contagious disease spread through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.
It can cause severe illness, complications, and even death.
Symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash.
White spots inside the cheeks, known as Koplik’s spots, are an early indicator.
Dr. Quiñon stressed the need to improve vaccination coverage, as Iloilo’s fully immunized child (FIC) rate remains below the 95% target.
Provincial data show fluctuating rates over the years: 74% in 2020, 70% in 2021, 63% in 2022, 69% in 2023, and 74% in 2024.
Among the affected municipalities, Ajuy recorded an FIC rate of 66.67% in 2024, Pototan at 79.99%, and Cabatuan at 98.66%.
“We continue to campaign for parents to bring their children to health centers for immunization to prevent these vaccine-preventable diseases,” Dr. Quiñon said.
She assured the public that local health facilities have been alerted and are taking necessary measures.
Pototan has launched an outbreak response, while Cabatuan continues its surveillance efforts, conducting investigations and health education campaigns.
The Iloilo Provincial Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit is also coordinating with local government units to improve vaccination coverage.
“If patients exhibit symptoms, they need to hydrate and take oral rehydration solutions.
If they are unable to eat or drink due to vomiting, they should be taken to the hospital for hydration.
Fever can be managed with paracetamol, and itching with antihistamines.
Children should also receive vitamin A to replenish lost nutrients and protect against pneumonia,” Dr. Quiñon advised.
