Health officials confirm measles outbreak in New Ireland

The National Department of Health has officially confirmed a measles outbreak in New Ireland Province, following laboratory testing and disease surveillance conducted by the New Ireland Provincial Health Authority.

The Provincial Health Authority says the outbreak was confirmed after its Rapid Response Team carried out investigations in the Puas and Umbukul catchment areas, where suspected measles cases were identified.

Seven suspected samples were collected from Neitab Island in the Puas catchment area of Lavongai LLG on June 12. Laboratory testing later confirmed one positive measles case.

A second investigation at Umbukul and the Poliamba ENBPOL Estate on June 23 resulted in another 18 suspected cases being sampled, providing further evidence that the virus is circulating within the province.

Under World Health Organization outbreak protocols, a single laboratory-confirmed measles case is sufficient to declare an outbreak in areas where transmission had previously been interrupted.

The New Ireland Provincial Health Authority has activated its outbreak response mechanisms and is working with the National Department of Health and health partners to contain the spread of the disease.

Health authorities are urging the public to remain calm, cooperate with surveillance teams and seek immediate medical attention if they or their children develop symptoms such as fever, cough, red watery eyes and a skin rash.