29 Nov 2023 | 01:47 PM UTC
Kazakhstan: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas, especially Shymkent, in November
Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas in Kazakhstan in November. Shymkent is most affected. Confirm vaccination.
Kazakh health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas, with 17,687 cases reported Jan. 1-Nov. 28. This is compared to the 10 cases reported nationwide in Kazakhstan in 2022. The city of Shymkent (3,016 cases) is most affected, followed by the city of Almaty (2,653 cases), Jambyl region (2,370 cases), Almaty region (1,561 cases), Mangystau region (1,390 cases), Aktobe region (1,362 cases), Kyzylorda region (1,133 cases), and Atyrau region (1,104 cases). Kazakh health officials have urged the public to get their measles vaccinations up to date to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of Nov. 29.
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.
Measles vaccination coverage in Kazakhstan was estimated at 97 percent in 2022, which is above the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Kazakhstan reported roughly 10 measles cases nationwide in 2022, two cases in 2021, and 3,270 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
