06 Mar 2024 | 02:11 PM UTC
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas, especially Tuzla Canton, in March
Elevated measles outbreak reported in multiple areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially Tuzla Canton, in March. Confirm vaccination.
Health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a total of 388 cases reported Jan. 1-March 3. This is compared to the 10 measles cases reported for 2023. Tuzla Canton (215 cases) is the most affected, followed by Sarajevo Canton (158 cases), Zenica-Doboj Canton (13 cases), Una-Sana Canton (1 case), and Central Bosnia Canton (1 case). Local health officials have implemented outbreak response measures including strengthening surveillance, communication with the public and healthcare professionals, and catch-up vaccination activities. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 6.
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 Bosnia and Herzegovina was estimated at 58 percent in 2022, which is well below the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials reported two cases of measles each in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 2022, 2021, and 2020, and 1,332 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.
