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Measles in Madagascar (Update 5)

01 Apr 2019

The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports measles continues to be transmitted throughout Madagascar. From 03 September 2018 to 20 March 2019, there have been 117 075 cases (including 752 deaths) in all 22 regions of the country.

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. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection from measles.

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-13 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 4 months. Unvaccinated adults who have not had measles themselves should seek advice from a healthcare professional regarding measles vaccination.

For further information see Measles.