*482 cases of measles have been registered in Almaty since the beginning of 2026*

The measles epidemiological situation in Almaty remains unstable, and the majority of cases are unvaccinated children. Asel Kalykova, Deputy Head of the Almaty Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control, spoke about the current epidemiological situation and preventive measures at a press conference at the Regional Communications Service.

According to her, the increase in cases began in November 2025, when 30 cases were registered, and by December, their number had increased to 142. Since the beginning of 2026, the increase has continued, and to date, 482 confirmed cases of measles have been recorded.

"We see that the vast majority of those infected are children who have not been vaccinated against measles. This directly impacts the spread of the infection and the development of outbreaks. This is why the issue of vaccination is especially pressing today," noted Asel Kalykova.

Of the total number of confirmed cases, 451 are children under 14 years of age, which is 93.5%. Adolescents make up 0.4%, and adults - 6.01%. The incidence rate per 100,000 population reached 19.8. The highest number of cases was registered in the Alatau district - 197, Nauryzbay - 110, Bostandyk - 45, Auezov - 39, Almaly - 32, Turksib - 24, Zhetysu - 20, and Medeu - 15 cases.

"Among those infected, 87.9% were not vaccinated against measles. The main reasons are vaccination refusal, medical contraindications, and not reaching the vaccination age. These factors create a vulnerable population group," the speaker emphasized.

Thirty-four cases of measles were registered among vaccinated individuals, 33 of whom had incomplete vaccination courses and only one who was fully vaccinated. The largest proportion of cases were among children aged 1 to 4 years and infants under one year. By age group, the disease was most frequently detected among children from unorganized settings (72.1%), followed by children from organized settings, schoolchildren, military personnel, unemployed adults, and students.

Anti-epidemic measures have been implemented in all infection foci. 4,154 contacts have been identified and are being monitored during the incubation period. 706 contacts have been vaccinated against measles, rubella, and mumps according to epidemic indications. Filters have been introduced in kindergartens and schools, classroom learning has been temporarily suspended, mass gatherings have been restricted, and unvaccinated contacts of children have been separated.

"Vaccination remains the only effective way to protect against measles and its complications. Each dose of the vaccine strengthens the child's immunity and reduces the risk of severe illness. We urge parents to be responsible about vaccinations," said Asel Kalykova.

In Almaty, catch-up immunization of children under 18 who have not previously been vaccinated against measles continues. Additional vaccinations are also being administered to children aged 6 to 10 months and 29 days. From December 2025 to February 2026, 1,720 infants were covered, representing 16.1% of those eligible. Since the beginning of the year, 4,200 children and adolescents have been vaccinated against measles. Routine vaccinations are administered twice—at 1 year and 6 years of age—at vaccination clinics in local outpatient clinics.

Experts emphasize that adherence to the vaccination schedule helps develop stable post-vaccination immunity and prevent further spread of infection.