The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) of Ecuador has announced that, in response to an epidemiological alert regarding a high risk of measles in Peru, surveillance and prevention protocols have been activated throughout the country.
As of now, there have been no confirmed cases of measles—either local or imported—in Ecuador. Measles is known to be highly contagious and can lead to serious complications such as blindness, pneumonia, or encephalitis.
According to the MSP, vaccination remains the only effective protection against measles. The ministry outlined its current vaccination strategy:
– Babies aged 6 to 11 months will receive a “Zero Dose” vaccine as an exceptional measure in provinces with high migration: Carchi, Esmeraldas, Sucumbíos, Orellana, Loja, Zamora Chinchipe, El Oro, and Galápagos. This dose does not replace the regular immunization schedule.
– International travelers are advised to get vaccinated 15 days before traveling to countries with ongoing transmission such as Peru, Argentina, the United States, Mexico, Canada, or Costa Rica.
– Vaccination is also recommended for direct and indirect contacts of suspected or confirmed cases.
– For children aged 1 to 6 years old, health authorities will check their vaccination history to ensure completion of the immunization schedule.
– People between ages 7 and 26 who do not have a record of prior vaccination should receive a single dose of the SR vaccine.
– Adults aged 27 and older without prior vaccination should receive two doses of the SR vaccine six months apart.
Coordination continues with Peruvian health authorities through Ecuador’s National Focal Point for the International Health Regulations (IHR), facilitating official information exchange.
The MSP is conducting a risk assessment within its Multi-Threat Response Plan framework. This assessment takes into account migration flows and existing vaccination coverage across regions.
Key measures adopted include active surveillance for case detection; strategic vaccinations in vulnerable areas and at locations with high foot traffic such as schools, bus terminals, and airports; preventive isolation; and use of protective equipment when clinical suspicion arises.
“The Ministry of Public Health reaffirms its commitment to national health security and will provide timely updates as new information becomes available,” said officials from the MSP.
