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Measles in Nigeria (Update)

05 Mar 2013

Following the recent report of a measles outbreak in Kaduna state, further outbreaks have been reported in Nigeria.

Kano state in the north of the country is reporting a measles outbreak with 800 cases recorded in 11 local government areas; those affected are: Kabo, Gwale, Dala, Kumbotso, Madobi, Ungoggo, Tarauni, Karaye, Municipal, Fagge and Tsanyawa.

The 8 local government areas that make up Kano metropolis are the worst affected.

Katsina state in the north of the country has reported around 1260 measles cases and 9 deaths in the current outbreak in the area. Jigawa state, also in the north has reported 250 measles cases and 3 deaths. Both these states border Kano state.

A measles outbreak is also reported in Kebbi state in the north-west of Nigeria.

Advice for Travellers

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.