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An outbreak of plague has been reported by the Ministry of Health in Madagascar. The first case (fatal) was identified in the district of Tsiroanomandidy on 31 August 2014. As of 16 November, a total of 119 cases have been confirmed, including 40 deaths.
Seven regions have been affected by the outbreak and cases have been reported in 16 districts. Two cases have also been reported in the capital city of Antananarivo. Plague has the potential to spread rapidly in the city due to high population density and a weak healthcare system.
The national task force has been activated to manage the outbreak and the government has put in place strategies for control, supported by WHO, the Pasteur Institute of Madagascar and the Red Cross.
(Via WHO Global Alert and Response - accessed 24/11/14)
Plague is an infection of wild rodents and is transmitted by fleas to other animals and humans. The risk to travellers is generally low, however, travel to plague endemic areas may be a risk, particularly if camping, hunting or having contact with rodents
In plague endemic areas contact with rodents should be discouraged. Travellers to these areas should be advised on how to store and dispose of food produce to prevent attraction to rodents. Avoidance of flea bites must be advised by use of repellents and insecticides. Travellers should also be discouraged from camping and handling rodents both dead or alive.
