Lawngtlai, April 15: The Lawngtlai district administration on Tuesday convened a review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall to assess preparedness measures and strengthen preventive strategies against the possible spread of measles from neighbouring Bangladesh, where a significant outbreak has reportedly claimed more than a hundred lives.
 |
| Officials and health authorities hold a review meeting at the Deputy Commissioner’s Conference Hall in Lawngtlai to discuss measles preparedness amid the outbreak in Bangladesh. (DIPR Mizoram) |
The meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Donny Lalruatsanga, who emphasized the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures, particularly because Lawngtlai shares an international border with Bangladesh. He noted that early preparedness and effective coordination among government departments are crucial to preventing any potential outbreak in the district.
Addressing officials and stakeholders, the Deputy Commissioner urged the public to remain alert and cooperate with health authorities. He stressed the importance of timely immunization, especially for children under the age of five, who are among the most vulnerable to the disease. He also directed concerned departments to intensify awareness campaigns, issue public advisories, and strengthen surveillance in border villages and remote areas.
During the meeting, Senior Chief Medical Officer Dr. Lalmuanawma Jongte briefed participants on the nature and risks associated with measles. He explained that measles is a highly contagious viral disease transmitted through the air and can spread rapidly within communities. Symptoms include high fever, runny nose, red and watery eyes, cough, and characteristic skin rashes. In severe cases, the disease can lead to complications such as pneumonia, malnutrition, and even death.
Dr. Jongte emphasized that vaccination remains the most effective means of prevention. He urged parents and guardians to ensure that children receive the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine according to the national immunization schedule. The vaccine is administered in two doses, the first between 9 and 12 months of age and the second between 16 and 24 months.
The Senior CMO informed the meeting that health authorities have already activated Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) at Primary Health Centres (PHCs) and Community Health Centres (CHCs) throughout the district. Mobile vaccination teams have also been kept on standby to respond swiftly if required. He further assured that adequate stocks of MR vaccines and Vitamin A supplements are available in the district.
Representing the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Lalhlimpuii stated that measles cases had been reported in Lawngtlai district last year, but prompt intervention by health authorities ensured that no fatalities occurred. She noted that no measles cases have been reported in the district so far in 2026, but surveillance activities and vaccination campaigns have been intensified as a precautionary measure.
Meanwhile, District Immunization Officer Dr. Remlalnghaki presented data on vaccination coverage between April 2025 and March 2026. While coverage for the first dose of the MR vaccine (MR1) was reported to be satisfactory, she noted that coverage for the second dose (MR2) remains comparatively low. Efforts are currently underway to improve uptake and ensure that eligible children complete the recommended vaccination schedule.
ALSO READ: Review Committee Meets to Examine Mizo Marriage and Inheritance Law Amendment
She also highlighted ongoing campaigns promoting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, aimed at improving overall immunization coverage and public health outcomes in the district.
The meeting was attended by officials from the Health Department, district administration, representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and other stakeholders. Participants discussed strategies for strengthening community awareness and ensuring coordinated action in the event of any suspected cases.
The district administration concluded by appealing to Village Councils, churches, NGOs, community leaders, and the public to cooperate with health authorities in preventing the spread of measles. Officials stressed that collective vigilance, timely vaccination, and community participation will be key to safeguarding public health and keeping Lawngtlai free from the disease.
