Madagascar: New plague case in Ankazobe

Event

A new case of bubonic plague had been reported in Ankazobe (Analamanga region), approximately 100 km (62 mi) from the capital Antananarivo, as of Sunday, January 21. The Ministry of Health has taken immediate measures to prevent the spread of the disease; the patient’s workplace (the kitchen of a religious institution) has undergone disinfection and all those with whom the infected person may have come into contact are being placed under medical observation. Additional cases are likely to be reported at least through the end of plague season in April 2018.

Context

Between August and November 2017, at least 202 fatalities linked to a total of 2417 confirmed pneumonic and bubonic plague were reported during a nationwide outbreak. The Ankazobe district is part of an area where plague cases are most regularly reported.

Plague is a bacterial infection that typically affects rodents and is most often transmitted from rodents to other animals and humans via flea bites. Bubonic plague is the most common form of the disease, characterized by swollen lymph nodes; it is fatal in 30 to 60 percent of cases. Pneumonic plague occurs when the bacteria infects the lungs; symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, pneumonia, chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, and sometimes bloody or watery mucous. It is the most virulent form of the disease and can be spread from person to person. Without prompt and effective treatment, pneumonic plague is always fatal. Plague can be treated with antibiotics.

Advice

Individuals in Madagascar should continue to take measures to protect themselves from insect bites (use insect repellents, wear long sleeved shirts and pants, etc.), maintain strict standards of sanitation (cleanliness to discourage presence of rodents, elimination of rodent habitats outdoors - e.g. brush, rock piles, pet food, etc.), use flea control products on all pets, and avoid contact with potentially infected persons. Anyone presenting with the above symptoms is advised to seek immediate medical attention