Ukraine. Kiev suffers from a measles epidemic, with 9 out of 10 unvaccinated children becoming ill after coming into contact with the virus

The Ukrainian capital is at risk of a measles epidemic and children should be vaccinated as soon as possible, as there are enough vaccines, Kyiv city authorities announced on their website on Monday.

“We must do everything possible to prevent a measles epidemic like the one in 2018,” said the Directorate of the Health Department of the Kyiv City State Administration, stressing that the number of cases was increasing.

No figures were provided, but it was stressed that there was currently a “huge increase” in measles cases, which recur every 5-6 years, and authorities in neighboring Romania declared a measles epidemic in early December.

See also: Measles epidemic in Romania. Many children are not vaccinated, thousands of cases

It is recalled that vaccination is the only effective means of protection against measles, one of the world's most contagious diseases. Nine out of 10 unvaccinated people who come into contact with a sick person will get sick.

“We need to understand that measles is spread by unvaccinated children. The disease starts with them and spreads to adults. That's why we appeal primarily to parents. Contact your pediatrician or family doctor now to make sure your child is vaccinated. ,” Kyiv city officials appeal, vaccination is free. Add that.

“Measles is a very dangerous disease. It causes dangerous complications that can lead to death. Vaccinated children are less likely to get sick, and if they do get sick, it is mild without consequences for their health and future life. Two steps – consultation with a doctor and vaccination according to the vaccination schedule – child, family and guarantee the safety of other persons,” Kiev officials appealed.

Read more: 40,000 measles cases in Ukraine (2018 data)