New cases make Brazil lose title of measles-free country

New measles records in the North have made Brazil lose its certificate of eradication of the disease.

In 2018, more than 10,000 measles cases were confirmed, with an epidemic of the disease in July, in the states of Amazonas, Pará and Roraima.

In 2019 alone, 28 endemic cases have already been recorded , 23 in Pará and 5 in Amazonas. In other words, the disease was contracted locally, within these states.

In a report sent to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the Ministry of Health says it is already working to combat the disease.

Read more: New bulletin records over 10,000 measles cases in Brazil

Eradication certificate

The measles eradication certificate was granted to Brazil by PAHO in 2016.

The decision to remove it came about due to the presence of the disease for more than 12 months in the national territory.

The Ministry of Health intends to obtain this certification again within a year, after the new cases are dealt with.

Therefore, new vaccination campaigns are being carried out mainly in the affected regions.

The measles

Measles is a contagious virus transmitted disease. It is possible to contract it after contact with secretions ( cough , sneeze or saliva) from an infected person.

When infected, symptoms can take up to 12 days to manifest, the main signs being:

  • High fever;
  • Diarrhea;
  • Cough;
  • Vomiting and nausea;
  • Runny nose (runny nose).

 

In case of suspicion, it is recommended to see a doctor to confirm the diagnosis.

Read more: Measles itch? Know the stages and symptoms of the disease

As it mainly affects children, it is important that parents are attentive to vaccination, a preventive measure that is effective in 97% of cases.

Babies and children should be vaccinated according to the vaccination card. In addition, adults who have not yet had the vaccine can also look for a basic health unit throughout Brazil and be vaccinated free of charge.


Measles will be eradicated only if vaccines are not forgotten. Brazil has already overcome this disease in the past and can do it again. Get vaccinated!

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