Phnom Penh – The Ministry of Health has issued a warning about a resurgence of measles in schools and border provinces, linked to a decline in vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. This troubling trend, observed since October 2024, poses significant health risks, particularly to children.

In a press release dated December 20, 2024, the Ministry highlighted that measles—a highly contagious respiratory illness—has reemerged not only in Cambodia but also in neighboring countries. Schools are particularly vulnerable to outbreaks, placing young children, especially those who are malnourished, at heightened risk of severe complications or death.

Between January and December 2024, Cambodia recorded 375 confirmed measles cases across 17 provinces. Children, migrants, and mobile populations in border areas have been identified as the most at-risk groups. The Ministry emphasized that the measles virus can remain airborne for up to two hours, facilitating rapid transmission in crowded settings.

Symptoms and Spread

Measles symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and include a runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and white spots inside the cheeks. These are followed by a red rash that starts on the face and neck and spreads across the body, usually fading within 5 to 6 days.

Government Response

To curb the spread, the Ministry is urging parents and caregivers to vaccinate their children with two doses of the measles vaccine, which is recommended for children aged 9 months to under 5 years. A nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign was launched on October 31, 2024, targeting this age group to bolster immunity.

Global Context

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles outbreaks have surged globally since 2023, exacerbated by a decline in vaccination rates during the pandemic. The Cambodian Ministry of Health is calling for increased awareness and proactive measures to protect children and prevent further outbreaks.