The measles outbreak is now into its 11th month and suspected cases have risen above 8,500 (with 57 deaths), however vaccination campaigns implemented in the four most affected regions – Oromio (over half of all cases), Somali, Amhara and Afar – have produced a gradual decline in new cases since the March peak. Elsewhere in the region, 16 of Chad’s regions report measles epidemics as the YTD total of suspected cases climbed to more than 25,000 (with 242 deaths). And in Europe, measles rates have soared in Switzerland this year, expanding more than 6-fold over those reported in 2018. Five cantons have recorded highest numbers (Geneva, St Gallen, Zurich, Bern and Neuchâtel) and over half of all cases have been in adults aged 20 years or older. While in Lebanon, four governates have borne the brunt of the increase in measles cases since November last year - Aakar, Baalbek-El-Hermel, Bekaa North and Mount Lebanon. The WHO has assessed the risk of the infection spreading to be high within the country and moderate for the region. Regarding the situation in Oceania: after UNICEF last month warned of the increased risk of measles spreading to Pacific island nations due to sub-optimal vaccination rates in some areas, health authorities in Samoa have called for New Zealand to check its ongoing outbreak, believed to be the original source of the now seven confirmed cases there. Onward transmission has now also been confirmed in Tonga, with a health alert issued following 15 confirmed and suspected measles cases associated with schoolboy rugby players who had recently returned from playing in NZ. Read more
Advice for travellers
Measles occurs in developing and developed countries and unvaccinated travellers are at particular risk, both in transit and during their stay. While generally benign, infection can result in severe illness or death. Travelvax Australia recommends travellers check their immunisation status for measles and other childhood diseases such as diphtheria, whooping cough (pertussis) and mumps at least 6 weeks before departure. Read more about measles.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.