Lawngtlai district implements steps to prevent measles outbreak

Aizawl: South Mizoram’s Lawngtlai district administration has been making elaborate arrangements to prevent possible outbreak of measles after the endemic in adjoining Bangladesh has resulted in deaths of over hundred people, district deputy commissioner Donny Lalruatsanga said on Thursday.Lalruatsanga said since Lawngtlai district shares an international border with Bangladesh, there is a high possibility of the disease penetrating the district. He further stressed that villagers along the border need to be extra cautious and said he had urged the community leaders to actively participate in preventive efforts.He also said both the district level task force and block level task force are actively working to prevent measles and other diseases. The public was urged to cooperate in preventing the spread, and the district administration assured that it will continue to take all necessary measures with support from village councils, civil society organisations, churches, and the public.Dr Lalhlimpuii from the World Health Organisation (WHO) said measles cases had previously been reported in Lawngtlai district during Jan and Feb last year, but no fatalities occurred due to effective response. Lalhlimpuii pointed out that incomplete vaccination remains an issue, and intensified efforts are ongoing. She also said no measles cases have been reported so far this year, and preventive measures will continue.