Measles claim 49 lives in Arunachal's Tirap district

Itanagar, Oct 10 (UNI) At least 49 deaths have been reported after a measles epidemic broke out at Pumao and Longkhao villages under Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh from July 20 to October 3 last.

While 26 measles death were reported from Pumao village, Longkhao recorded 23 deaths, according to sources here today. Tirap district medical officer Dr N Ninu rushed to Pumao on October five last along with staff and distributed medicines, sources informed adding, most of the victims were reported to be children.

Local MLA Thangwang Wangham has appealed to the medical department and district administration to initiate remedial measures to arrest the epidemic. The MLA also apprised Chief Minister Gegong Apang about the outbreak of measles epidemic in the area.

Meanwhile, the Tribal Development Foundation (TDF) would conduct health camps in Longding and Pumao circles in coordination with medical department from October 16 to 19 next. The medical camp would distribute free medicines to the victims, sources informed adding the team would also conduct campaign on sanitation, HIV and AIDS during the health camp.

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