16 May 2024 | 03:13 PM UTC
Afghanistan: Elevated measles activity reported nationwide in May
Elevated measles activity reported nationwide in Afghanistan in May. Obtain vaccination; use basic health precautions.
Health officials have reported elevated measles activity nationwide in Afghanistan, with a total of 23,447 cases (3,489 confirmed cases) reported Jan. 1-May 11. This is compared to roughly 12,690 measles cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Balkh (17.5 measles cases per 10,000 population at risk) is the most affected, followed by Samangan (16.1 measles cases per 10,000 population), Khost (15.5 measles cases per 10,000 population), and Jawzjan (12.1 measles cases per 10,000 population). Health officials have implemented multiple immunization campaigns since the beginning of 2024 in response to the outbreak. This report represents the most complete data available as of May 16.
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 is endemic in Afghanistan, with most provinces reporting suspected cases every year. Measles vaccination coverage in Afghanistan was estimated at 68 percent in 2022, which is well below the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials reported roughly 25,856 measles cases nationwide in Afghanistan in 2023, 5,166 cases in 2022, 2,900 cases in 2021, and 640 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.
