The Ministry of Health in Jujuy is continuing its campaign to prevent measles by promoting vaccination for children across the province. The health authorities emphasized that measles is a highly contagious viral disease, mainly affecting children, and can only be prevented through the triple viral vaccine. This vaccine also protects against mumps and rubella, is free of charge, and included in the National Vaccination Calendar.
Health teams are focusing on vaccinating children at key ages. Children aged one year should receive their first dose of the triple viral vaccine, while those aged five should complete their vaccination schedule. Doses are also available for children aged two, three, or four who have not started the vaccination process and for those born in 2020 who have not yet turned five but need a second dose.
Measles can occur at any age and presents with symptoms such as high fever, red spots on the skin, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, and cough. Severe cases may develop complications like pneumonia or central nervous system issues—such as seizures or encephalitis—which can lead to serious long-term effects or even death. There is no specific antiviral treatment for measles; prevention relies entirely on completing the recommended vaccination schedule.
Transmission occurs through droplets released from an infected person’s nose, mouth, or throat. The virus remains active in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours.
According to current guidelines:
– Children aged 12 months to four years should receive one dose of the triple viral vaccine.
– Those aged five years or older—including adolescents and adults—should have two doses of a measles and rubella vaccine (either double or triple viral), administered after their first birthday.
– People born before 1965 are considered immune and do not require vaccination.
– Vaccination history must be verified either through official records or a vaccination card.
Although Jujuy has been free of measles since 1997, health teams continue surveillance efforts due to regional epidemiological concerns. Any individual with a fever above 38 degrees Celsius and skin eruptions is considered a suspected case, prompting investigation for both measles and rubella regardless of age or vaccination status.
The Ministry urges anyone experiencing these symptoms to seek immediate care at their nearest health center or hospital rather than self-medicating.
