Afghanistan: Officials report elevated measles activity nationwide through March

Event

Afghan officials continue to report a surge in measles cases with at least 46,237 clinical cases reported between Jan. 1-March 5. This has already surpassed the 31,379 cases reported in 2021. Helmand province reports the most cases (8,271 cases), followed by Kandahar (2,795 cases), and Balkh (2,246 cases). This represents the most complete data available as of March 22.

Context

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease spread through airborne droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes, or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. Symptoms of measles typically appear 7-21 days after exposure, but patients become contagious up to five days before symptoms appear. Such symptoms generally include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. Serious complications - including pneumonia - can occur, especially in children younger than five years old, adults older than 20 years old, and people whose immune systems are weakened by other acute or chronic health conditions.

Advice

Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. If you suspect a measles infection, call ahead before visiting a doctor to prevent the spread of the disease at clinics or hospitals.