Measles is a growing threat.

"Measles" is one of the most contagious diseases known and is caused by the genus Morbillivirus. The virus easily spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

The disease can lead to severe complications and even death. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, a large number of children—especially those under five—died each year from the disease. Since the introduction of the measles vaccine, global cases have declined significantly, and in Aruba, where the vaccine has been in use since 1979, no cases have been reported since the 1980s. This is thanks to the high vaccination rate (95%) among children aged 0 to 10.

Recently, however, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the alarm again due to the rise in measles cases in various European countries and the U.S. (particularly Texas), affecting children and adults. According to the WHO, this resurgence is linked to a decline in vaccination coverage, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many people have chosen not to vaccinate their children against measles, which has weakened herd immunity, making it easier for the virus to spread—not only among the unvaccinated but also among vulnerable individuals. 
Just as it was impossible to prevent the entry of the COVID-19 virus into Aruba, the country must be internally well-prepared to manage the transmission of measles once it arrives and to protect high-risk citizens who could become seriously ill or die after contact with the virus.

In the coming weeks, DVG will inform the public about the strategy to handle possible measles transmission.

Your health is your responsibility – take action to protect it. 

For more information: 

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• Visit our website: www.dvg.aw
• Call us: +297 5224200
• Or email: servicio@dvg.aw.