Measles in Nigeria

20 May 2014

An outbreak of measles has been reported in the state of Katsina in northern Nigeria. The outbreak has affected all 34 local government areas of the state and 1260 measles cases have been recorded, including 9 deaths.

Low vaccine uptake has been blamed for the outbreak and parents are being encouraged to bring their children for vaccination and to report any signs of the illness to the nearest health facility for treatment as soon as possible.

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.