An orientation-cum-preparedness meeting was held at the Amlarem Sub-Divisional Office to strengthen preventive measures against a possible cross-border Measles-Rubella outbreak.

The meeting was chaired by V. Kezho, Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) of Amlarem Civil Sub-Division, and attended by representatives from various departments and community groups to coordinate surveillance and response mechanisms.

Dr. B. Puspakarna, a WHO Rapid Response Team (RRT) member posted in West Jaintia Hills, briefed attendees on the situation in neighbouring Bangladesh. He reported an increase in hospitalisations and fatalities linked to Measles-Rubella cases and stressed the need for vigilance and early detection.

Dr. A. Khonglah, Sub-Divisional Medical and Health Officer (SDM&HO) of Amlarem, called on officials and community leaders to report any suspected cases presenting with fever and rash to the nearest health facility without delay. He stated that early detection remains critical for containment.

He also informed that a few suspected cases had been reported in Amlarem Block, but laboratory tests returned negative results. He added that there is no immediate cause for concern.

Officials from the administration, Health Department, Community and Rural Development (C&RD), Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and Education Department attended the meeting. Representatives from the Border Security Force (BSF), religious leaders, Wahehshnong, Village Health Committees (VHCs), ASHA workers, and Anganwadi workers were also present.