The CDC reported another 41 measles cases up to May 17, taking the total this year to 880 in 24 states. Elsewhere in the Americas, the PAHO has updated 2019 data from Apr 18, noting that nine countries have reported cases in the most recent 4-week period, Brazil (70 cases), Venezuela (63), Colombia (27), Canada (12 cases), Uruguay (6 cases) and one case each in Chile, Costa Rica and Peru.
In New Zealand, Auckland’s case count has risen to 65 with the highest incidence in the west and central areas of the city. Health authorities in La Louvière, Belgium, have seen an increase in measles infections over the past three weeks (30-35 per week compared to 1-2 per year). Ukraine’s YTD total is nearing 50,000 cases. Across Asia, there are updates for the Philippines, Hong Kong, Vietnam and India (Kerala and in particular, the capital Thiruvananthapuram). In the African region, outbreaks have been reported in Nigeria (2,157 suspected cases from 34 States and FCT), Madagascar (from Sept 2018 – 11 May, 909 deaths from 145,136 cases) and Ethiopia (Oromia, Amhara and Solami regions) has recorded over 5,600 suspected cases.
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.