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Health authorities in Meghalaya have intensified surveillance and preventive measures in border districts following measles outbreaks in neighbouring Bangladesh, officials said on Monday.

 

The focus is on East Khasi Hills, where departments have been directed to strengthen early detection, reporting, and rapid response systems to prevent any spillover of the highly contagious disease.

 

Officials said any case of fever accompanied by a rash would be treated as a suspected case of measles and must be reported immediately, irrespective of age.

 

“We have asked all concerned to treat even a single suspected case with urgency,” an official said, underlining the need for vigilance amid regional outbreaks.

 

The School Education Department and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) have been instructed to ensure prompt reporting of suspected cases identified in schools and anganwadi centres.

 

Teachers, anganwadi workers, and field staff have been sensitised to identify early symptoms, including fever and rash, and to report cases to the nearest health facility, Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM), or medical officer without delay.

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“We have asked schools and anganwadi centres to remain vigilant and report even a single suspected case immediately,” the official said.

 

Daily monitoring has been mandated across institutions to ensure swift detection and containment, with authorities stressing that early intervention is critical to preventing an outbreak.

 

As part of infection control measures, children suspected of measles have been barred from attending schools or anganwadi centres until full recovery.

 

“Suspected cases should remain isolated at home with minimal contact to prevent further transmission,” the official added.

 

Authorities have also emphasised close coordination with the World Health Organization and state health departments to ensure timely investigation and response.

 

Officials said the situation is being closely monitored, with preparedness measures aimed at preventing any outbreak in the state, especially in districts with cross-border movement.

 

The stepped-up vigilance comes as health authorities seek to contain risks early and avoid a repeat of past outbreaks, relying on surveillance, quick reporting, and community awareness to keep the disease in check.