Measles in South Sudan

28 Oct 2013

A suspected measles outbreak in Malakal county has now been confirmed by the Ministry of Health for Upper Nile state. At least 10 of the 15 sample collected from inpatients in Malakal hospital have tested positive for measles. Forty four measles cases have been recorded since August 2013.

Plans to conduct a mass measles immunisation campaign have been put in place.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.