Measles Outbreak in Sierra Leone

28 Jun 2016

On 15 June 2016 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an ongoing measles outbreak in Sierra Leone, with over 4,800 cases and 20 deaths.

Despite nationwide vaccination campaigns measles remains common in Sierra Leone, with malnourished children and people with reduced immunity at greatest risk of suffering severe complications.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-13 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months. Unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves should consider vaccination. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.