Health authorities respond to measles risks in Bolivia and Peru

Health authorities in Bolivia and Peru are addressing measles concerns through contingency measures and vaccination drives. In La Paz, Bolivia, the Departmental Health Service (Sedes) has activated a contingency phase following 12 recorded measles cases. Of these, nine are currently active. The outbreak is notably linked to universities, with 11 of the 12 cases involving university students. While some educational institutions have cooperated with vaccination brigades, officials reported difficulties at one private university where restricted access to student lists hindered contact tracing and control efforts.

In Puno, Peru, the Regional Health Directorate (DIRESA) is working to address a significant gap in measles vaccination coverage, which currently stands at approximately 60%. Director Augusto Delgado Aza stated the goal is to reach a 90% to 95% coverage rate to mitigate propagation risks. Beyond measles, regional health management is prioritizing the reduction of childhood anemia and malnutrition through house-to-house monitoring and improved laboratory diagnostics.