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Measles in India

06 January 2023

India continues to experience widespread transmission of measles. According to the Junior Minister of Health on 20 December 2022, about 10 000 children were diagnosed with measles in India in 2022. Forty of these children died of their illness.  The city of Mumbai recorded 527 cases (9 deaths) in 2022. 

The worst affected states are Maharashtra (3075 cases, 13 deaths), Jharkand (2 683 cases, 8 deaths), Gujarat (1 650 cases, 9 deaths), Haryana (1 537 cases, 3 deaths), Bihar (1 276 cases, 7 deaths) and Kerala (196 cases).

The city of Mumbai recorded 527 cases (9 deaths) in 2022. 

Measles is a highly infectious viral infection spread via airborne or droplet transmission. Symptoms include fever, rash, cough, coryza or conjunctivitis and may lead to serious and potentially life-threatening complications in some people.

Measles is most common in young children, but all ages are at risk if they have not been fully vaccinated or had prior measles infection.

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. The travel consultation provides a valuable opportunity to ensure individuals are protected against measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) viruses. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection.

Consider vaccinating:

  • all travellers who have not previously had two doses of MMR vaccine or prior measles infection
  • travellers visiting friends and relatives (VFRs), and/or mixing closely with the local population
  • younger children who have not yet been fully immunised

For children, first and second doses of MMR vaccine can be administered earlier than they would routinely be given within the UK Vaccination Schedule (2 doses of MMR vaccine around 12-13 months, and before starting school at around 3 years 4 months of age).

  • MMR vaccine can be given from 6 months of age when early protection is required

See the TRAVAX Measles, Mumps and Rubella page for further information.