As Chennai reports cases of measles, doctors stress timely vaccination

Cases of measles have been reported in Chennai over the past few months. While there is no surge or clustering, paediatricians say most affected children were not fully vaccinated against measles.

Officials of the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine said there is no upsurge compared to the previous year. “The State’s immunisation coverage stands at 99%. The Measles-Rubella vaccine, administered at nine and 18 months – has about 85% efficacy and provides adequate protection,” A. Somasundaram, Director of Public Health, said.