Measles cases up 299 percent this year

MANILA, Philippines — Measles cases in the country have increased by 299 percent from January to October this year, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

Latest data released by the DOH’s Disease Surveillance Report showed there were 1,829 cases of measles recorded from Jan. 1 to Oct. 14 or higher by almost 300 percent during the same period last year with 458.

Among regions, the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) logged the highest number of cases with 601.

It was followed by Central Luzon with 260 and Central Visayas with 126.

The BARMM also recorded the highest increase in the cases compared to 2022 with 4,523 percent or from 13 to 601.

It was followed by the Cordilleras with 1,800 percent or from one to 19 cases, and Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Sanos) with 800 percent or from 10 to 89.

Six fatalities from measles were recorded this year including two each in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) and BARMM, and one each in Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon and Palawan) and Davao region.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory infection that causes skin rashes and flu-like symptoms.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent contracting and spreading measles.

895 new COVID cases

Meanwhile, the country recorded 895 new COVID cases from Oct. 30 to Nov. 5.

Of the cases, 12 were severe and critical, the DOH said, adding no fatality was recorded from Oct. 23 to Nov. 5.

On Sunday alone, the health department recorded 276 severe and critical COVID patients who sought admission in hospitals.

The figure comprised 9.3 percent of the total COVID admissions nationwide.