Measles in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports continuing transmission of measles in African countries. From the beginning of 2023 to 9 July 2023 the following have been reported:

• Botswana: 13 cases

• Cameroon: 4 671 cases, 18 deaths

• Central African Republic: 1 656 cases

• Chad: 8 189 cases, 4 deaths

• Democratic Republic of the Congo: 82 601 cases, 1 442 deaths

• Ethiopia: 5 052 cases, 3 deaths

• Kenya: 270 cases, 4 deaths

• Liberia: 10 664, 93 deaths

• Mali: 276 cases, 0 deaths

• Mauritania: 285 cases, 3 deaths

• Niger: 1 530 cases, 0 deaths

• Senegal: 371 cases, 0 deaths

• South Africa: 6 460 cases, 0 deaths

• South Sudan: 6 447 cases, 69 deaths

• Zambia: 2 157 cases, 31 deaths

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.