Official Press Release

PASIG CITY— In response to the increase in the number of individuals contracting measles, the Department of Education (DepEd) has issued DepEd Memo No. 03 s.2014 on Thursday regarding the implementation of the anti-measles campaign in public schools. Following the advisory of the Department of Health (DOH), DepEd has ordered the Schools Division Superintendents (SDSs) and the Regional Directors (RDs) to oversee the smooth execution of the campaign.

School heads have been instructed to send home students exhibiting flu-like symptoms to rest and recuperate.

The DepEd is also asking schools to disseminate information about measles and immunization procedures as well as report identified cases to concerned local health units. They have also been advised to coordinate with the local government health units for the complete vaccination of children.

The systematic relay of information regarding students’ and teachers’ state of health is expected to be operationalized through the Preventive Alert System in Schools (PASS). Under the system, school principals must conduct, monitor, and maintain records of students and personnel’s daily health inspection. Pertinent information must be relayed to the SDS and to the DepEd central office for review and appropriate action.

Authorities recommend addressing any signs of measles at the onset. Measles are rapidly transmitted through air or direct contact, and when ignored it can cause diarrhea, dehydration, pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, and deafness. It is especially hazardous for very young and undernourished children.