Bolivia Declares Measles Health Emergency: Government Warns It's More Dangerous Than COVID-19

La Paz, Bolivia – The Bolivian government has declared a health emergency, issuing a stark warning that measles poses a greater threat than COVID-19. The announcement comes as the country confirms 60 cases of measles, with the majority reported in the Santa Cruz department.According to health officials, measles is significantly more contagious than the coronavirus. While a single COVID-19 patient could infect up to eight individuals, a person with measles has the potential to spread the disease to as many as 18 others.Furthermore, the Ministry of Health has highlighted the alarming mortality rates associated with measles. For every 100 COVID-19 cases, approximately three deaths were recorded. However, with measles, the risk escalates, potentially leading to six fatalities for every 100 infected individuals.Beyond the immediate threat, measles can also result in severe and lasting complications, particularly in children. These include blindness, pneumonia, and encephalitis. In response to these grave risks, authorities are strongly urging all parents to ensure their children under the age of five receive the measles vaccine.The government emphasizes the critical importance of vaccination to protect the most vulnerable population and prevent a wider outbreak of the highly contagious disease.