Measles Re-emerges in Sri Lanka with Two Cases in Colombo, Authorities Urge Vaccination

Sri Lankan health authorities have confirmed the re-emergence of measles, a disease previously eliminated in the country. Two children have been identified with the infection in the Colombo District. Investigations suggest the virus may have originated from a foreign country. This development coincides with the start of World Immunization Week. Sri Lanka was declared measles-free by the World Health Organization in 2019, though sporadic outbreaks have been noted since 2023. Officials are urging parents to ensure that children who have not received the measles vaccine, or have only received a single dose, complete their full immunization schedule without delay.