Khabarovsk Krai races to vaccinate 10,000 against measles outbreak

More than 10,000 people in Khabarovsk Krai have received the measles vaccine in the first two months of 2024. Among them, around 4,800 were children. Health officials are urging residents to stay protected against the highly contagious virus.

Measles spreads easily and poses serious risks, especially for those who are unvaccinated. Early symptoms include a high fever, extreme tiredness, headaches, a dry cough, a runny nose, and red, inflamed eyes. After four or five days, a distinctive rash appears on the face before spreading down the body.

Children in Khabarovsk Krai typically get their first measles jab at 12 months, followed by a booster at age six. The vaccine remains free and available at all local clinics across the region. Authorities are also advising certain adults to get immunised. This includes anyone under 35 who has never had measles, missed their shots, received only one dose, or lacks vaccination records. Workers in high-risk jobs are recommended to get the vaccine up to age 55.

The vaccination push in Khabarovsk Krai has already covered thousands of residents this year. Free and accessible immunisation continues at neighbourhood clinics. Health officials stress the importance of vaccination to prevent outbreaks of the dangerous virus.