• Health & Wellness -> Diseases and Medical Conditions

• 0 Comment

What impact does measles have on the developing world and how can we help prevent it?

Beatrice Squirrell

Measles has a significant impact on the developing world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles is one of the leading causes of death among young children, particularly in countries with limited access to health care services. In 2017, there were an estimated 110,000 measles-related deaths globally, and most of these occurred in developing countries.

The impact of measles goes beyond just the loss of life. Measles can cause severe complications, especially in children under the age of five, such as pneumonia, diarrhea, and encephalitis. These complications can lead to long-term disabilities and have lasting effects on families and communities. Measles outbreaks can also strain health care systems, disrupt education, and cause economic losses.

So, what can we do to prevent measles in the developing world? Vaccination is the best and most cost-effective way to prevent measles. WHO recommends that all children receive two doses of the measles vaccine, starting with the first dose at nine months of age. However, the rates of measles vaccination are lower in developing countries due to various factors, including limited access to health care services, lack of awareness about the importance of vaccination, and vaccine hesitancy.

One solution to increase vaccination rates is to strengthen health care systems in developing countries. This includes expanding access to vaccines, improving cold chain infrastructure to store vaccines properly, and training health care workers to administer vaccines and provide education to communities about vaccine-preventable diseases. Another solution is to address vaccine hesitancy by engaging with communities, building trust, and addressing concerns about the safety and efficacy of vaccines.

In addition to vaccination, implementing community-based interventions can also help prevent measles outbreaks. These interventions include early detection and surveillance of cases, improving hygiene practices (such as handwashing), and promoting breastfeeding to boost children's immunity.

We can also support organizations working to prevent measles in the developing world by donating to vaccine campaigns, raising awareness about the impact of measles, and advocating for increased funding for vaccination programs.

In conclusion, measles has a devastating impact on the developing world, but we can take action to prevent it. By strengthening health care systems, addressing vaccine hesitancy, implementing community-based interventions, and supporting organizations working to prevent measles, we can reduce the burden of this disease and save lives. Vaccination is essential to achieving this goal, and we all have a role to play in ensuring that every child has access to this life-saving intervention.