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'Alternative cures' driving measles danger

A child with measles

Apia, SAMOA — The Samoa Director General of Health, Leausa Take Naseri has disputed claims being spread online about a cure for the measles virus. 

Speaking to the media in a press conference this week, he said that there are so many 'cures' being spread on the internet, that vulnerable parents are at risk of choosing them over proven treatments and putting their children at risk by delaying their hospital treatment. 

“I am not sure whether it is a business or they are genuine in offering assistance but so far, there is no scientific evidence that any of these so called cures being spread online works on the measles virus,” he said.

Leausa stated that vaccinations are very significant because once people are vaccinated their bodies can develop immunity for the measles virus which will combat it once infected. 

“It is because there are so many virus without any anti-virus unlike the bacteria there are so many antibiotic but there are only two virus that has antivirus," he said. 

He added that the young children who have died so far were not vaccinated.

The Director General of Health has warned parents against seeking out anything but the recommended treatments for measles and has warned that delays in seeking treatment can often have fatal consequences.

Keeping vaccinations up to date are the first line of defence against measles, the Ministry says. First round vaccinations are now available to children as young as six months old. 

Government advice is to seek immediate help from a qualified medical professional at a hospital if children display symptoms of measles.

Read more at Samoa Observer