Ministry of Health and Wellness advises vigilance following Measles cases

The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) advises the public to remain vigilant regarding the risk of measles exposure associated with international travel and recently identified cases within Belize. The Ministry advises that unvaccinated members of the public who live in or have travelled recently to border communities are at an increased risk of getting […] The post Ministry of Health and Wellness advises vigilance following Measles cases appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.

Ministry of Health and Wellness advises vigilance following Measles cases

The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW) advises the public to remain vigilant regarding the risk of measles exposure associated with international travel and recently identified cases within Belize.

The Ministry advises that unvaccinated members of the public who live in or have travelled recently to border communities are at an increased risk of getting measles.

Since the beginning of 2026, eight measles cases have been identified in the country, with additional suspected cases currently under review. The Ministry continues to monitor the situation closely and has strengthened surveillance and response measures nationwide.

Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads rapidly through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through direct contact with an infected person. Measles is a serious illness, especially in children under the age of 5.

Measles symptoms may include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash that typically begins on the face and then spreads to the body.

Symptoms can appear between 7 and 21 days after exposure to an infected person.

The MoHW advises the following:

  • Persons who believe they may have been exposed to measles should contact the nearest health center or call the MoHW hotline at 0-800-MOH-CARE (0-800-664-2273) for guidance.
  • Anyone experiencing fever and rash symptoms should seek medical attention promptly. If possible, call the nearest clinic first for advice or further instructions.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to work closely with national and regional partners to contain the spread of measles and protect public health.

The post Ministry of Health and Wellness advises vigilance following Measles cases appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.