Measles in the Philippines
08 Feb 2019
An outbreak of measles continues in the Phillipines.
From 1 January to 26 January 2019, 575 cases, with 9 deaths, have been reported from Calabarzon Region. The National Capital Region (Metro Manila) has reported 441 cases with 5 deaths.
Cases have also been reported from Region 3 (192 cases, 4 deaths), Region 6 (104 cases, 3 deaths) and Region 7 (71 cases, 1 death).
Other regions where there have been notable numbers of cases include MIMAROPA (70 cases), Region 1 (64 cases, 2 deaths), Region 10 (60 cases), Region 8 (54 cases, 1 death) and Region 12 (43 cases).
All regions of the country remain at risk from measles.
Advice for Travellers
Travel may increase an individual’s risk of exposure to measles virus, and facilitate the spread of disease to unvaccinated and susceptible populations. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection.
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 4 months. Unvaccinated adults who have not had measles themselves should seek advice from a healthcare professional regarding measles vaccination.
For further information see Measles.