Traveling During Springbreak? Attention: Measles Cases Increasing Worldwide.

Measles is a highly contagious infectious disease that spreads from person to person through droplets that remain in the air after an infected person coughs or sneezes. Measles affects the respiratory system and then spreads throughout the entire body. 

Symptoms include:

• High fever;
• Coughing;
• Runny nose;
• Red, watery eyes;
• Possible small white spots inside the mouth;
• Rash starting on the face and spreading over the whole body.

Children who are not vaccinated, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems (due to illness or old age) are most at risk of developing complications, which can lead to death, such as:

• Pneumonia;
• Encephalitis (brain inflammation);
• Complications during pregnancy (spontaneous miscarriage, premature birth, congenital complications).

The Department of Public Health advises all travelers to research their destination to see if there are reports of measles cases. If so, take precautions to protect yourself by avoiding contact with sick individuals with respiratory symptoms.

Those born before 1970 who are traveling to areas with reported measles cases are advised by DVG to get a measles vaccine before traveling. People born before 1970 generally received only one dose of the measles vaccine as children, and getting another dose can help boost the immune system against the virus. The price for the measles vaccine is AWG 60,- and it is available in the Infectious Diseases section of DVG, located at Avicenastraat #1. Payment is only possible with a debit card. No cash accepted.

No appointment is necessary. You may walk in Monday through Friday from 7:30 to 11:45 AM and 1:15 to 3:30 PM.

For more information, like our Facebook page Directie Volksgezondheid DVG Aruba, follow us on Instagram at directie_volksgezondheid_aruba, visit www.dvg.aw or call at 5224200, or email servicio@dvg.aw.