Patna: Laboratory confirmation of suspected measles cases in the Barh subdivision of Patna has prompted health authorities to initiate a targeted immunisation campaign and intensify surveillance measures across affected areas. Officials said samples collected from two hamlets tested positive at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences Patna, triggering an immediate public health response.
The district administration has announced a special vaccination drive focusing on children aged nine months to five years. Civil surgeon Dr Yogendra Prasad Mandal said a review meeting with medical officers of primary health centres will be held to assess preparedness and coordinate containment efforts in the region.
District immunisation officer Dr Awadhesh Kumar said all eligible children in the identified localities will receive the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine as a precautionary measure. He added that children who have already received routine doses will also be vaccinated to strengthen herd immunity and interrupt the chain of transmission.
Authorities have activated rapid response teams to carry out door-to-door surveys and identify additional suspected cases. Accredited social health activists and Anganwadi workers have been directed to prepare lists of unvaccinated children, verify immunisation records and administer vitamin-A supplementation where necessary.
Screening campaigns are also planned in schools and Anganwadi centres, with officials warning that measles is a highly contagious airborne viral disease capable of spreading quickly within communities. A micro-containment strategy has therefore been implemented in the affected hamlets to prevent further transmission.
Health officials said enhanced monitoring will continue for 28 days, with immediate sampling of any suspected cases. Parents have been advised to seek medical attention if children develop symptoms such as high fever, rash, cough or red eyes. Authorities reiterated that the MMR vaccine is safe, effective and available free of cost under the national immunisation programme, emphasising that early vaccination remains key to protecting communities and preventing outbreaks.
