Understanding the Impact, Prevention, and Co-morbidities of Measles: A Cross-Sectional Study at City Hospital, Jalalabad, Kyrgyzstan

Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, remains a significant public health challenge despite the availability of an effective vaccine. This cross-sectional study, conducted at City Hospital in Jalalabad, Kyrgyzstan, from December 10, 2023, to March 30, 2024, investigated a measles resurgence among 50 hospitalized children aged 1 month to 14 years. The study aimed to identify risk factors, evaluate vaccine effectiveness, assess complications, and propose control strategies. Findings revealed that 60% of cases were infants under 2 years, with 86% unvaccinated due to religious beliefs and misinformation. Malnutrition was prevalent, with 56% of children underweight and 60% stunted. Pneumonia (80%), anemia (34%), and parasitic infections (18%) emerged as significant co-morbidities. Transmission was associated with low herd immunity and direct contact (40%). These results underscore the urgent need for enhanced vaccination campaigns, nutritional interventions, and community education to reduce measles morbidity in Jalalabad.