20 Feb 2024 | 10:43 AM UTC
Burkina Faso: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas in February
Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas in Burkina Faso in February. Confirm vaccination.
Local health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas in Burkina Faso, with 1,269 total cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 10. This is compared to the 2,190 measles cases reported in Burkina Faso for 2023. Disease activity has been reported in the districts of Boulmiougou and Bogodogo in the Center region, Ouahigouya in the North region, Tougouri in the Center-North region, and Solenzo and Boromo in the Boucle du Mouhoun region. Local health officials are working to strengthen disease surveillance measures, and are planning to implement a vaccination campaign in an effort to prevent disease transmission. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 20.
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.
The WHO estimated that the measles-containing-vaccine first-dose vaccination coverage in Burkina Faso was 88 percent in 2022, which falls below the required 92-95 percent recommended to prevent wider community transmission. Health authorities reported roughly 2,190 measles cases nationwide in Burkina Faso in 2023, 252 cases in 2022, 3,866 cases in 2021, and 2,480 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.
