Democratic Republic of Congo: Elevated measles activity reported nationwide through April; North Kivu Province most affected /update 1

Event

DRC health officials have reported an additional 21,236 cases of measles April 4-16, bringing the total case count to 78,396 since Jan. 1. Over a similar period in 2022, only 23,879 cases were reported. The most at-risk province is North Kivu Province (21,594 cases), followed by South Kivu (20,660 cases), Lomami (11,385 cases), Tshopo (8,218 cases), and Sankuru (7,354 cases). A vaccination campaign is scheduled to take place in May in Kinshasa, Mongala, North Kivu, South Kivu, and Tshopo provinces to help curb the spread of the epidemic. This report represents the most complete data available as of May 8.

Context

Measles vaccination coverage in the DRC is estimated at 55 percent, much lower than the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Authorities reported 148,638 cases nationwide in 2022, nearly 54,471 cases in 2021, and 80,450 cases in 2020.

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.