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Measles in Pakistan

22 May 2012

An outbreak of measles has been reported in North Waziristan, a tribal agency bordering Afghanistan. The media report that at least 12 children and one adult have died as a result of measles infection. The main hospital reports that in the last three weeks, 5-10 suspected measles cases are being seen daily and 70 confirmed cases are being treated in hospital.

Advice for Travellers

This area is unlikely to be visited by the average traveller, however, it should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.