Following the detection of laboratory-confirmed measles cases in Tizit Block, Mon District, the Health Department has intensified efforts to contain the outbreak through enhanced surveillance, vaccination, public awareness and interdepartmental coordination.
As part of the response, a block-level meeting was convened on 21st September 2026 at the Community Health Centre (CHC), Tizit, under the leadership of Dr. Supongmenla Walling, Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Mon, and Moie Bonnie Konyak, District Programme Manager (DPM).
The meeting reviewed the current status of the measles outbreak, discussed the revision of the immunisation micro-plan and deliberated on coordination with the WHO regional team. Health personnel from all health units under Tizit Block were directed to attend the meeting with updated immunisation micro-plans and lists of unvaccinated children to facilitate effective planning and implementation of vaccination activities.
Following the block level meeting, a team from the World Health Organization (WHO) visited Tizit Block to conduct a field investigation and assess the outbreak situation.
The visiting team comprised Dr. M A H Azhar, MD, Surveillance Medical Officer (SMO) WHO Mokokchung and Dr Jayaseelan Vedamuthu, Surveillance incharge NE region.
The team undertook field level assessments to review the outbreak situation and support ongoing surveillance and response measures in coordination with the district health authorities.
Following the field investigation, the WHO team and health officials held a meeting with the district administration, represented by Additional Deputy Commissioner Mon, Pakon Phom,
The meeting focused on strengthening coordination between the Health Department and the district administration, particularly in implementing public awareness activities and disseminating information to the affected villages.
The ADC agreed to issue necessary instructions and facilitate the dissemination of awareness materials to the respective village authorities as and when the materials become available.
The Health Department has outlined a series of measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further transmission. In this regard, the measles vaccination drive is scheduled to commence by 12th October 2026, with awareness activities to be undertaken in advance of the campaign.
For children aged 5 -10 years, the Vaccination will be conducted in schools, while for children below 5 years, Vaccination will be facilitated through Anganwadi centres and home visits.
With regard to Immunisation planning, updated school enrolment data and lists of unvaccinated children will be compiled to ensure comprehensive coverage. The authorities have also directed schools to promptly report any student or staff member presenting with fever and rash or other suspected symptoms to the nearest health facility. Individuals suspected or confirmed to have measles are required to remain in home or appropriate isolation and avoid schools, workplaces, public gatherings and public transport while infectious, until cleared by the competent health authority.
The Health Department urges the public to remain vigilant and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms such as fever accompanied by a rash develop. While Parents, teachers, village authorities and community leaders are encouraged to cooperate with health workers, participate in awareness activities and support the upcoming vaccination drive.
The district administration and the Health Department reaffirm their commitment to strengthening surveillance, ensuring vaccination coverage and containing the measles outbreak through coordinated public health action.
(M Pelih, IA Mon)
