The latest data indicates that the measles outbreak in Vietnam is still very much ongoing, and continued surges in cases are being seen in central and northern Vietnam — including new outbreaks in parts of the country that had not reported cases or clusters of cases before.

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Due to the highly contagious nature of measles and the significant immunity gaps, many unvaccinated or under-vaccinated children are exposed to infection.

With fatal cases already reported and anticipated surges in measles cases in remote areas, WHO and UNICEF experts stressed that it is critical to implement a national vaccination campaign reaching all susceptible children as soon as possible.

It is also essential to ensure hospitals and healthcare facilities have sufficient supplies of treatment products (including Vitamin A) to ensure the recovery of sick children, especially in remote and disadvantaged areas.

In addition, WHO and UNICEF experts also encourage healthcare facilities to implement appropriate clinical management and infection prevention and control measures to reduce severity of illness for those who do become infected and protect the most vulnerable children.

Immunisation is the best way to prevent measles and given the scale of the outbreak it is essential to speed-up and expand the eligible age group and locations for vaccination. Engaging with non-health sectors is also crucial in identifying un vaccinated or under-vaccinated children and mobilising parents to bring their children to healthcare facilities for vaccination.

The joint statement reaffirmed WHO and UNICEF’s readiness to continue their support to Vietnam in its endeavours to bring the current outbreak under control and prevent further spread of measles.

This includes developing a measles elimination strategy, a clear plan for reaching those currently unreached with vaccination, communication for the measles campaign, and strengthening systems for the supply, procurement, and distribution of vaccines, including the cold chain system.

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