The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) has confirmed a measles outbreak in Grand Kru County in southeastern Liberia that has affected 73 persons with two deaths recorded so far, reports said on Monday.
According to Dr. Masoka Fallah, the dead are a one-year-old boy and an eleven-month old baby girl.
Dr. Fallah quoted Grand Kru County health authorities as saying the outbreak is concentrated in the districts of Forpoh, Dorbor, Jloh and Barclayville.
The NPHIL Director General said a massive awareness campaign has been launched, including consultations with citizens, the business community, other government ministries and agencies, and the county leadership on measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
The county health team has also commenced community level awareness to discourage discrimination of persons suspected of the disease.
A cross-section of citizens have also begun rallying together to support key health facilities in the county. For example, a citizens’ Lobbying Committee was recently established, headed by the county
superintendent Doris Ylatun, co-chaired by Dr. Mentoe, the County Health Officer. Other members the County Legislative Caucus chairperson Senator Peter Coleman. as well as members of the business community, religious leaders and the media.
TSS/abj/APA