As part of the national immunisation campaign against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Al Ahli Hospital is providing the vaccine for people at high risk of the diseases, especially children.
The campaign started on October 17 and will continue until November 14, targeting children aged one to 13 years.
The aim of this campaign is to improve and protect the health of Qatar’s children from infectious diseases as stated in the objectives of the National Health Strategy.
Dr Mohamad Anas Barakat, (pictured) Consultant Pediatrician, said, “This initiative from the Ministry of Public Health’s is very important because the virus of measles, mumps and rubella are dangerous and can be transmitted through coughs and droplets from the mouth while sneezing. Measles is an infectious disease that can affects children and the elderly who are not immunized.”
“The incubation period last for ten days. The Symptoms include prodromal fever, conjunctivitis, coryza (runny nose), cough, and small spots with white or bluish-white centers on an erythematous base on the buccal mucosa. A characteristic red, blotchy (maculopapular) rash appears on the third to seventh day after the prodromal symptoms appear. The rash begins on the face. Common complications include diarrhea, middle ear infection,” he added.
People at high risk for severe illness and complications from measles including Infants and children who takes immunosuppressant medicine, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems.
