26 Nov 2024 | 11:17 AM UTC
Kenya: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas in November
Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas in Kenya in November. Obtain vaccination; use basic health precautions.
Health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas in Kenya, with a total of 2,714 cases (294 confirmed cases) reported Jan. 1-Nov. 3. This is compared to the 1,375 measles cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Disease activity has been reported in 17 counties, with 11 reporting active transmission. Garissa is the most affected county (1,068 cases), followed by Turkana (726 cases), Mandera (233 cases), and Kajiado (228 cases). In response, health officials have launched a widespread vaccination campaign for children aged six months to 15 years in the affected areas. This report represents the most complete data available as of Nov. 26.
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.
In 2023, the first dose of measles-containing-vaccine (MCV1) coverage was 91 percent and 76 percent for the second dose (MCV2), which is lower than the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health officials reported roughly 1,551 measles cases nationwide in Kenya in 2023, 1,774 cases in 2022, 266 cases in 2021, and 597 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.
