By Ernest Kpehe Moibah
Health authorities in Bomi County have confirmed the outbreak of measles in the county, with 32 out 108 susceptive cases recorded positive, raising fresh concerns over public health safety in the county.
According to the County Health Surveillance Officer, Blama Kamara, the outbreak is affecting a broad segment of the population, with cases reported among individuals ranging from one month to 49 years old.
Providing a breakdown of the situation, Kamara disclosed that of the 108 suspected cases, 59 are males and 49 are females. Health teams have so far collected 72 samples for laboratory testing, with 32 confirmed positive. Among the confirmed cases, 18 are males and 14 are females, aged between six months and 26 years.
Despite the growing number of infections, authorities say no deaths have been recorded, a development Kamara attributes to ongoing surveillance, awareness, and early response mechanism across the county.
However, concern is mounting over what health officials describe as reluctance by some residents to seek medical attention, even when showing symptoms consistent with measles.
“This behavior is dangerous and could worsen the situation,” Kamara warned, urging residents to take the outbreak seriously.
He is calling on parents and caregivers to promptly take children and affected individuals to the nearest health facility at the first sign of symptoms, stressing that early diagnosis and treatment remain key to preventing complications and stopping the spread of the disease.
Meanwhile, health authorities have intensified community awareness campaigns and active surveillance efforts in a bid to contain the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations.
As the situation develops, residents are being urged to remain alert, cooperate with health teams, and prioritize their health, as officials race to prevent further spread of the disease across communities in Bomi County.
