The Department of Health (DOH) noted a 35 percent increase in measles-rubella cases from 1 January to 1 March, recording 922 cases during that period.

This marks a 35 percent jump compared to the 683 cases documented in 2024. From 2 February to 1 March, a continuous rise was also observed in several regions, including the National Capital Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos Region, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, and Soccsksargen.

Of the reported cases, 625 or 68 percent involved individuals who were either unvaccinated or had not received a complete measles vaccine.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa warned that measles is a highly contagious disease that can be transmitted through coughing and sneezing.

"A child with measles can infect 16 other children. That's why we must prevent the spread of this disease," Herbosa explained in Filipino.

If not treated promptly, measles can lead to serious conditions such as pneumonia, brain infection, and even death, particularly among children under five. However, Herbosa stressed that these complications can be prevented if children receive the measles vaccine. “These diseases are preventable with vaccines like the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Let’s get vaccinated at the nearest health center,” he added.

The DOH chief said the MMR vaccination for children aged nine months to one year continues at health centers. Additionally, this March, catch-up immunization against measles will be conducted for children aged one year to four years in selected regions such as Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Soccsksargen, and the Bangsamoro Region. During this catch-up immunization, children who have not yet received or completed their MMR vaccination will be vaccinated.

Herbosa reiterated the importance of completing both vaccinations against measles, urging parents to contact the nearest health center for the inoculation schedule in their area. He also reminded the public to practice good personal and respiratory hygiene, such as washing hands with soap and water, to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Should symptoms like high fever, body rash, cough, runny nose, and red eyes appear, Herbosa advised seeking immediate medical attention at the nearest health center.