Measles virus transmission in several countries

Health officials are reporting outbreaks of measles in the following countries:

• South Sudan - 100 reported cases and 10 deaths in Payinjiar county.
• Somalia - worst measles outbreak in 4 years, with almost 19 000 suspected cases reported
• Nigeria - 15 deaths out of a total of 864 suspected cases in Gombe State
• Ireland - cluster of cases in north Dublin city
• United Kingdom - school-based outbreak involving 32 children in Brookethorpe, Gloucestershire County.

Advice

All travellers are reminded that outbreaks of the highly contagious measles virus can occur anywhere in the world at any time. Travellers who have not been immunized may be at high risk. 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.