Mumbai has confirmed the outbreak of measles in its slums and Centre has deputed a multi-disciplinary team to the city. The most cases have been reported in Govandi, which has the lowest human development index in the Maharashtra capital.
Around 75 cases of measles were reported between January and October in the slums of Dharavi, Govandi, Kurla, Mahim, Bandra and Matunga. Four measles-associated deaths have been reported so far.
The first confirmed death was reported in October. Later, within 48 hours this week, three children succumbed to measles. One of the deceased was only 13 months old.
Measles is caused by a virus in the paramyxovirus family and normally spreads through direct contact and air. The virus infects the respiratory tract and spreads throughout the body.
