The Ministry of Health announced on Apr. 20 that there is currently no local transmission of measles in Lima Metropolitan area, following the report of four cases. César Munayco, director of the National Center for Epidemiology, Prevention and Disease Control (CDC), said that strengthened vaccination campaigns and epidemiological surveillance are being carried out nationwide.
This announcement comes after two cases were reported during Epidemiological Weeks 3 and 8 in San Isidro district, with one case imported and another from an unknown source. The third case involved a young woman from Puno who was studying in Lima, while the fourth case was a relative of this individual.
Health officials stated that all patients are out of danger and emphasized the importance of vaccinating children under ten years old against measles. Vaccination efforts are being reinforced across various districts in Lima through increased campaigns, dissemination of preventive messages, active case searches, and enhanced surveillance.
Munayco said: “Parents play the most important role in caring for their children; vaccines are safe, free, and available at different health centers. Protecting them is a sign of love and respect for those who are the future of our country.”
In Puno region—where more cases have been recorded—the Ministry guarantees sufficient supplies for house-to-house vaccination drives as well as ongoing epidemiological monitoring. Measures also include prompt notification and investigation using digital platforms within 24 hours, strengthening health personnel capabilities, activating rapid response teams for outbreaks, optimizing laboratory sample processing flows, and implementing educational strategies with an intercultural approach.
These actions follow guidelines set by epidemiological alert AE-CDC N.º 005-2026 issued by the Ministry.
Measles is described as a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis—especially among unvaccinated children—and may be fatal. Symptoms include fever, skin rash, cough, and conjunctivitis; immediate medical attention is advised if these signs appear.
