As the specialist noted, there was a noticeable decline in morbidity by the end of 2025: only 1 case was recorded in October, 2 in November, and 7 in December. However, at the beginning of the new year, the situation changed dramatically.
According to the doctor, 92% of those infected were either unvaccinated or had not received their vaccination on time, while the remaining 8% were vaccinated, of which 6% had only received the first dose. The primary vaccination, which is given to children in their first year of life, provides immunity at a level of 90%, and a second dose is required at the age of two, which increases protection to 95-98%. The two percent of infected individuals who received the first dose may have contracted the virus due to a lack of a complete immune response.
In 2025, 90% of children in Kyrgyzstan were vaccinated against measles, rubella, and mumps. However, to stop the spread of measles, this figure needs to be at least 95%, Dadanova emphasized. Since 2023, over 1 million children aged 9 months to 7 years have been vaccinated, but unfortunately, some parents still refused vaccinations. The measles virus is highly contagious, and one infected person can transmit it to 10 to 15 others, especially among the unvaccinated.
The doctor also added that measles can affect adults as well. In 2025, 4% of those infected were individuals aged 20 to 30 years, and 5% were over 30. If someone is unsure whether they have been vaccinated, it is better to get vaccinated, as it will not cause harm: if the vaccination is present, immunity will be strengthened, and if not, it will be developed.
The initial symptoms of measles resemble those of the flu and a cold: high fever, cough, sneezing, and weakness. On the fourth day, a rash appears, starting on the face, then on the neck and behind the ears, gradually descending down the body. Without proper treatment, measles can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, meningitis, otitis, diarrhea, and even death. There is no specific medication for measles; symptomatic treatment is used: fever is reduced, and the body is strengthened with vitamins.
“Some parents refuse vaccination, claiming that they are responsible for their children's health if they become ill. However, they forget that sick children can infect others, including infants and those for whom vaccination is contraindicated. This can lead to serious complications for them. We must vaccinate for the safety of society,” Dadanova concluded.
