The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced a nationwide measles-rubella vaccination and Vitamin A supplementation campaign for children aged 9 months to 5 years starting October 2, 2024, to October 6, 2024.
Data from the World Health Organisation shows that as of 2023, Ghana recorded 2,282 measles and 109 Rubella cases.
Fig 1- Screenshots show Measles & Rubella cases recorded in Ghana in 2023
“Take all children aged 9 months to 5 years (irrespective of their vaccination status) to the nearest immunization post during the campaign to be immunized,” the Ghana Health Service said in a post on X.
What Is Measles?
Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. It can cause severe disease, complications, and even death. While measles can strike anyone, children are most commonly affected. Measles affects the respiratory tract and subsequently spreads throughout the body.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that, despite the availability of a reliable and affordable vaccination, 136,000 persons worldwide died from measles in 2022, the majority of them were young children.
What is Rubella?
Rubella is a contagious viral infection primarily affecting children and young adults, spreading through airborne droplets. It’s a leading vaccine-preventable cause of birth defects, with approximately 100,000 infants affected annually by congenital rubella syndrome.
In 2022, an estimated 17,865 rubella cases were reported in 78 countries. Infection during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or fetal death, especially in the first trimester.
Measles vs. Rubella: What Are The Differences And Similarities?
- Measles and rubella are caused by viruses which are transmissible by respiratory droplets.
- A common vaccine, the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine can effectively prevent or control their transmission.
- Both diseases have fever and rash as common symptoms, however, these symptoms differ greatly in type and intensity.
- In the case of both diseases, infection starts with a rash that first shows on the face
The main difference between both diseases is that measles infection is typified by a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red rash. Particularly in young children, it can result in serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death.
On the other hand, the symptoms of rubella, which is caused by the rubella virus, are usually less severe and include a low-grade fever and a rash.
What Are The Preventive Methods?
Measles
According to the WHO, community-wide vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles, with children receiving two doses at nine months and 15-18 months. Regular vaccination combined with mass immunisation campaigns, reduces global measles deaths and protects against rubella. In 2023, 74% of children received both doses.
Rubella
The best way to prevent rubella is vaccination with the MMR vaccine. It’s about 97% effective at preventing infection. However, other practical measures include;
- Frequently wash your hands, especially when you are ill.
- Don’t share personal items, like cups or utensils with anyone else.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your nose and mouth.
- Be aware of the prevalence of infectious diseases, such as rubella, when travelling to your destination.
What Are The Symptoms Of Measles And Rubella?
Rubella Symptoms; In Children:
- Rash in 50–80% of cases, lasting 1–3 days, starting on the face and neck before spreading.
- Low fever (<39°C), nausea, and mild conjunctivitis.
- Swollen lymph glands behind the ears and in the neck are common.
In Adults:
Particularly in women, symptoms may include arthritis and painful joints lasting 3–10 days.
Symptoms usually begin 10–14 days after exposure, lasting 4–7 days. A prominent rash appears 7–18 days after exposure, starting on the face and upper neck, spreading to hands and feet over 3 days, and lasting 5–6 days before fading.
Other symptoms include:
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Red, watery eyes
- Small white spots inside the cheeks
By: Benjamin Koranteng
