6,000 succumbed to measles in DR Congo: WHO
New Delhi: The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported that 6,000 people have lost their lives to a measles epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The organisation approached its international partners during a recent statement on Tuesday to fight the life-staking disease in the country. According to them, this one can be called 'World's worst Measles Epidemic'.
The health organisation stated that though the agency and the international partner organisations have vaccinated around 18 million Congolese infants under the age of 5 against the disease, routine immunization is still limited in the country.
Among all the reported cases, 25 per cent in the country occurred in children under 5, who are most prone to getting the vaccine-preventable diseases.
"We are doing our utmost to bring this epidemic under control. Yet to be truly successful we must ensure that no child faces the unnecessary risk of death from a disease that is easily preventable by a vaccine," Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO's Regional Director for Africa, said in the statement.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.