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5 children die from meningococcal disease and measles

  • By chagy5
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  • 2026-04-08
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5 children die from meningococcal disease and measles

As of April 6, seven confirmed cases of meningococcal infection have been reported nationwide, resulting in three deaths, according to health authorities. The cases include three in Ulaanbaatar City, two in Khovd Province, and one each in Uvs and Darkhan-Uul provinces. The infections have affected children aged between six months and 10 years, with 66.7 percent of cases occurring in children under the age of five, highlighting the vulnerability of younger age groups.

Data from the past six years indicate that up to 56 percent of all meningococcal infections have been recorded in the capital city. Higher incidence rates have also been observed in Bayan-Ulgii, Darkhan-Uul, Dornod, Khuvsgul, Orkhon, Selenge, Tuv, Uvs, Uvurkhangai, and Zavkhan provinces. Within the capital city, Bayanzurkh, Chingeltei, Nalaikh, and Sukhbaatar districts have been identified as high-risk areas, suggesting the need for targeted monitoring and localized response measures.

Health officials note that meningococcal infections typically peak between December and June, accounting for approximately 80 to 90 percent of total annual cases, with a particularly sharp rise during the spring season. The National Center for Communicable Diseases has warned that case numbers may continue to increase in the coming weeks, urging parents and caregivers to remain vigilant for early symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting, and rash. Early detection and immediate medical attention are critical to preventing severe complications and fatalities.

Meanwhile, Mongolia continues to face a prolonged measles outbreak, now in its 408th day. Two children in rural areas have recently died, bringing the total death toll to 17. A total of 14,562 measles cases have been recorded nationwide, with 62 patients currently hospitalized and receiving treatment. Among them, one child remains in critical condition.

Health authorities emphasize that both meningococcal infection and measles are preventable through vaccination. Citizens are encouraged to take advantage of available immunization services, including voluntary vaccination at specialized clinics, and to follow public health guidance aimed at reducing transmission, particularly among young children and vulnerable populations.

 

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