Eleven people test positive for measles in the Senapati district of Manipur, with the majority not having had a vaccination. Expanding immunization and addressing vaccine skepticism require quick action.
Measles Outbreak in Manipur’s Senapati District, 11 Persons Test Positive – Situation Overview
Measles outbreak in Manipur’s Senapati district, 11 persons test positive emerged as a public health concern on August 1, 2025. Health officials confirmed that 11 individuals tested positive for measles in areas including Council River Colony, Phyamai Vabuh, TNK Gate, Yapao Colony, DV School, Road to Emesiiphro and Mt Everest area in Senapati district . Samples from another 18 symptomatic individuals are pending results.
Vaccine Hesitancy at the Root
Authorities revealed that 10 of the 11 confirmed cases had never received a single dose of measles vaccine, exposing serious vaccination gaps. A rapid immunisation survey identified large pockets of vaccine hesitancy in affected communities. District officials warned that a lack of awareness, fear of injections, and misinformation are fueling the outbreak.
Immediate Public Health Actions Taken
Upon detection, the district administration convened a multi‑stakeholder meeting, involving health workers, local leaders, NGOs and WHO-supported surveillance teams . A coordinated containment strategy was announced:
- Targeted vaccination drives in Council River Colony and other hotspots
- Door-to-door active case searches
- Awareness sessions addressing vaccine myths
- Mobilisation of WHO-supported Immunisation teams for local capacity building .
Health workers were dispatched to schools and religious centres to vaccinate children aged 6 months to 15 years.
Understanding Measles and Its Risks
Measles is among the most contagious viral diseases. It spreads via airborne droplets and contaminated surfaces. In the absence of immunity, infection rates can reach 90% in close contacts .
Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eye and rash that spreads across the body. Complications such as pneumonia, diarrhea, encephalitis, and death can occur—especially in young children. Recent global outbreaks prove that high-case fatality and long-term disability remain significant risks without immunisation.
Why Vaccine Coverage Remains Low in Senapati
Senapati district—home to diverse tribal populations—suffers from scattered settlements, difficult terrain, and weak health infrastructure. Routine immunization coverage remains chronically low. Historical data show dramatic under-vaccination in Northeast India leads to sporadic outbreaks, such as in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills in 2016–17 .
Community resistance stems from beliefs that rashes are natural or divine, general fear of side effects, and missed opportunities due to laboring parents unable to visit clinics.
Community Reactions and Local Voice
Residents expressed worry and regret. One local community leader stated that misinformation had led families to skip immunisation for years. Religious and traditional leaders are now being engaged in dialogue to promote vaccination. Vaccine camps were opened at school buildings and community halls.
Mitigation Strategy—Expanding Access and Trust
Health authorities are deploying a multi-pronged approach:
- Supplementary Immunisation Activity (SIA) drives in high-risk zones
- Mission Indradhanush catch-up vaccinations, especially for children missed during COVID disruptions
- School-based immunisation for age-eligible students
- Incentivised vaccination events with free health check-ups and Vitamin A supplementation.
The Directorate of Family Welfare is promoting Adverse Event Following Immunization (AEFI) monitoring to inform parents and build confidence in vaccine safety
What Parents Should Know
Measles vaccine (MR or MMR) is safe and effective. Two doses offer ~97% protection
The first dose is given at 9–12 months; the second at 15–18 months
During outbreaks, children aged 6 months to 15 years should receive supplementary doses
Anyone with rash and fever should seek immediate testing and isolation
Longer-term Policy Lessons
This outbreak highlights systemic issues:
- Gaps in routine immunisation in hilly districts
- Poor public understanding and vaccine hesitancy
- Need for microplanning, including evening and weekend vaccination in tribal communities.
The state Health Department is planning annual immunisation audits, strengthening cold-chain logistics, and partnering with community leaders for sustained health messaging.
Role of WHO and External Support
The WHO supports Vaccine Preventable Disease surveillance and capacity building across Manipur health system, including training health officers, case-based monitoring, and outbreak response coordination .
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