Clinical spectrum of measles related diseases in children admitted in PICU of public-sector hospital of Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61529/idjp.v35i3.392Abstract
Background: Measles is a highly contagious, grave viral disease that can cause severe complications and death. Despite the availability of a safe and cost-effective vaccine, measles remains a major health problem in many developing countries, including Pakistan.
Objectives: To evaluate the clinical spectrum of measles related diseases (MRD) including risk factors, complications and outcomes in children admitted with complicated measles in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU).
Materials and Methods: A descriptive retrospective analysis was done in patients with clinical diagnosis of measles under 12 years of age admitted in isolation room PICU of Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology (SICHN) in Karachi from January 2023 to June 2023.
Results: Total 228 patients, 13.8% of total admissions were admitted with MRD in our PICU were included in study. Almost one third (39%) of patients were less than 9 months of age, malnourished (66%), 63% didn’t receive the first dose of vaccination and 85% didn’t receive the second dose. Case specific mortality was 10.08%. Pneumonia and Encephalitis were the most common complications and associated risk factors for mortality.
Conclusion: Measles elimination can be achieved through high vaccination coverage to decrease the spread of disease contacts.
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