Nepal: Elevated measles activity reported in Lumbini Province in February

Event

Nepali health officials have reported elevated measles activity in Banke District, Lumbini Province with over 390 cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 2. This is compared to the 76 cases reported nationwide in 2022. Nepalgunj is the most-at-risk city reporting 213 cases, followed by Narainapur (41 cases), Khajura Rural Municipality (21 cases), Duduwa (18 cases), Kohalpur (9 cases), and Rapti Sonari (7 cases). Health authorities have implemented a mass vaccination campaign against measles, targeting children aged six months to 15 years. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 6.

Context

Measles vaccination coverage in Nepal was estimated at 87 percent in 2020 and 90 percent in 2021, which is lower than the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Nepal reported roughly 76 cases nationwide in 2022, 388 cases in 2020, and 430 cases in 2019.

Measles is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory 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 typically appear 7-14 days after exposure, but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. 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 individuals with a weakened immune system.

Advice

Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.