Measles in Africa

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.

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.