Measles in Brazil

04 Nov 2013

An outbreak of measles has been ongoing in Brazil following importation of measles virus. The first measles case was identified on 23 January 2013, prior to this date, Brazil had not reported measles in the country in the last 10 years.

A total of 114 measles cases have been recorded to date; 98 cases in Pernambuco state, 7 in Paraiba state, 5 in Sao Paulo state, 2 in Mato Grosso state and one each in Santa Catarina state and the Federal District.

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.