Measles cases in the Caraga Region (Region 13) dropped to 98 in 2025 from 129 in the previous year, the Department of Health (DOH) reported Wednesday.
Dr. Amethyst Alicante, DOH-13 Medical Officer IV, attributed the overall decline to effective campaigns and vaccination programs during a press briefing.
“The decrease in the number of cases is attributed to the effective campaigns made and the vaccination program we conducted last year,” Alicante said.
Despite the regional decrease, some areas saw increases: Surigao del Sur (240 percent), Agusan del Sur (27 percent), Cabadbaran City (67 percent) and Tandag City (25 percent).
“Intensified vaccination campaigns will be done in these provinces and cities this year,” Alicante added.
DOH-13 launched its Measles-Rubella Supplemental Immunization activity in Lianga, Surigao del Sur, on Jan. 9.
The month-long campaign targets children aged six months to 59 months for free vaccination. (PNA)
