Measles in Africa

24 Feb 2025

The World Health Organization reports continued transmission of measles in Africa in 2024.

The latest figures from affected countries are:

Cameroon: From 1 January 2025 to 9 February 2025, 51 cases (1 death) have been reported across the country.

Ethiopia: from 1 January 2025 - 2 February 2025, 912 cases (3 deaths) in 19 districts.

Guinea: from 1 January 2025 to 26 January 2025, 619 suspected cases.

Kenya: from January 2024 to 3 February 2025, 2 949 cases (18 deaths) in 18 counties in Kenya have reported measles outbreaks. Active outbreaks continue in eight counties.

Senegal: from 1 January 2025 to 26 January 2025 there have been 12 confirmed cases, all unvaccinated, have been recorded in seven districts. An outbreak conintues in Linguere.

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease spread through sneezing, coughing or direct contact with respiratory fluids. It causes a rash, high temperature (fever) and muscle aches and can have serious complications.

Advice for Travellers

Travelling abroad may increase your risk of measles. Your risk of exposure may be higher if you will be visiting friends and relatives and/or mixing with the local population during your trip.

Two doses of measles vaccine (given as part of MMR in the UK) are needed in your lifetime to fully protect you.

Check with your GP before travelling to ensure you have received two doses of MMR vaccination.

Children should be up to date with the UK Vaccination Schedule. This includes a dose of MMR vaccine at around 12-13 months, and a second dose usually given from 3 years 4 months of age.

• If your child has not yet had 2 doses of the MMR vaccine, talk to your GP or travel health professional as they may be able to have the vaccine earlier than normal if you are travelling to an area considered to have a high risk of exposure to measles.

See the fitfortravel MMR page for further information.