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Measles Epidemic in Samoa - Additional Information

The measles outbreak continues with the number of deaths reaching 70, most of whom are children. There were 112 new cases in the 24 hours up to Monday 9 December. A state of emergency continues with no one under the age of 19 allowed to attend public gatherings. Although health authorities have succeeded in vaccinating 90 per cent of the population, the impact of the vaccination campaign on halting the epidemic will not be felt for as long as 14 days. It is too early to say whether the outbreak has peaked.

Advice

Sporadic cases and outbreaks are often reported by many countries. All travellers are reminded that outbreaks of the highly contagious measles virus can occur anywhere in the world at any time. Travellers who have been vaccinated are rarely infected while persons who have not been immunized may be at high risk. Complications of measles infection may be severe and sometimes fatal. Travellers can reduce their risk of exposure to the highly contagious measles virus by ensuring that their childhood vaccinations, including measles, are up-to-date prior to travelling.

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