Indonesia: Measles cases reported among foreign travelers

Event

Health officials in the US, Australia, Canada, and Taiwan have reported that several cases of measles have been detected among travelers returning from Indonesia. According to a statement released by the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC) on January 8, several of the infected individuals reportedly contracted the disease on the island of Bali. Health authorities are advising individuals to ensure that their measles vaccinations are up to date before traveling to Indonesia.

Context

Measles is still fairly common in Indonesia. In 2016, 6890 cases and five deaths attributed to the disease were reported. In August and September 2017, the government launched nationwide vaccination campaigns to ensure that all children between the ages of nine months and 15 years old were vaccinated against measles and rubella.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that typically affects mostly children. It is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth, or throat of infected persons. The disease remains one of the leading causes of death among young children globally, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine.

Symptoms of measles are usually a high fever, which begins approximately ten to 12 days after exposure to the virus and lasts four to seven days. A runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks can develop in the initial stage. After several days, a rash erupts, usually on the face and upper neck. Over the course of about three days, the rash spreads, eventually reaching the hands and feet. The rash lasts for five to six days and then fades. On average, the rash occurs 14 days after exposure to the virus (within a range of seven to 18 days).

Advice

Individuals in or planning travel to Indonesia are advised to ensure their measles vaccinations are up to date and, if experiencing any of the above symptoms, are encouraged to seek medical attention.