21 Jul 2023 | 11:34 AM UTC
Kenya: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas, with Turkana County most affected, through July
Elevated measles outbreak reported in multiple areas, especially Turkana County through July. Confirm vaccination.
Event
Kenyan health officials have reported elevated measles activity across multiple areas, with 710 measles cases reported (141 confirmed cases) Jan. 1-July 7. This is compared to the 17 cases of measles reported over a similar period in 2022. Turkana County is the most affected (295 cases) with measles activity also reported in the counties of Garissa, Isiolo, Kitui, Kwale, Lamu, Mombasa, Nairobi, and Tana River. The current measles outbreak is a continuation from cases reported in 2022 due to the influx of refugees from South Sudan where a measles outbreak has occurred. Health officials implemented a vaccination campaign in Turkana County to reduce measles transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of July 20.
Context
Measles vaccination coverage in Kenya is estimated at 56 percent for measles-containing vaccine 2 (MCV-2), which is lower than the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health authorities reported 392 cases nationwide in 2022, roughly 615 cases in 2021, roughly 40 cases in 2020, and roughly 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.
