Photo: Bach Mai Hospital

On April 10, 2025, the Institute of Tropical Medicine (Bach Mai Hospital) reported the first adult death from measles this year. The patient had underlying chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes. They were admitted to the hospital with severe lung complications and required dialysis and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Despite two weeks of intensive treatment, the patient did not survive.

Experts emphasized that measles is not only seen in children but also affects adults, especially those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems. For adults with reduced immunity, a booster vaccination is recommended. Those who have not been vaccinated or are unsure of their vaccination history should receive a booster shot of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

The measles vaccine is very safe and effective. The Ministry of Health recommends that all children receive the vaccine and follow up with booster doses. Full vaccination not only protects individuals but also helps control outbreaks in the community.

As of early April 2025, Vietnam has recorded over 54,000 measles cases nationwide. Previously, the Ministry of Health had forecasted a general downward trend, but the outbreak has not yet subsided. Caution remains necessary, as more suspected measles-related rash cases are expected to be reported in provinces and cities across the country.

Compiled by: Le Minh Dat (email: lmd@vpha.org.vn)

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REFERENCES

1. Báo Sức khoẻ & Đời sống - Cơ quan ngôn luận của Bộ Y tế. Đã ghi nhận ca tử vong sởi ở người lớn đầu tiên trong năm. Accessed April 11, 2025. https://suckhoedoisong.vn/da-ghi-nhan-ca-tu-vong-soi-o-nguoi-lon-dau-tien-trong-nam-169250410162729302.htm