Health Authorities Confirm Five New Measles Cases in Lisbon Area
The Directorate-General for Health (Direção-Geral da Saúde or DGS) confirmed five new cases of measles (sarampo) in the Lisbon and Tagus Valley region since October 6. The newly identified infections bring the national total to 15 confirmed cases this year. Health officials reminded the public that measles is highly contagious through airborne transmission, urging residents to verify that their vaccinations are up to date.
The DGS (Direção-Geral da Saúde) is Portugal's central public health authority, responsible for setting health policy guidelines, managing vaccination programs, disease surveillance, and public health campaigns. It operates under the Ministry of Health.
The DGS issues clinical guidelines (normas) that health professionals across Portugal follow, manages the national vaccination schedule, coordinates responses to disease outbreaks, and publishes health statistics. It became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic as the lead agency for public health guidance.
For residents, the DGS is the authoritative source for vaccination schedules, health alerts, and clinical guidance. Its recommendations shape how hospitals and health centers deliver care across the country.
