Madagascar: Plague kills 124 as of October 24 /update 9

Event

Health officials reported that as of Tuesday, October 24, at least 124 people have died from pneumonic plague since the beginning of the current outbreak in August. According to the Ministry of Health, 1133 cases of the disease have been confirmed – 219 of which are still being treated.

Also on Tuesday, health officials announced that contamination rates have slowed and that ten of the 38 districts affected by the outbreak have been free of any new cases in the last 15 days.

While authorities continue to carry out disinfection campaigns, a ban on public gatherings and meetings is still in effect in affected areas, and targeted schools and universities remain closed. Travelers should expect checkpoints intended to identify potential cases of the illness at major transportation hubs across the country. Individuals should allow time for additional health screenings at airports in Madagascar, and anticipate entry screening at airports in neighboring countries including Comoros, Mauritius, and South Africa. ​

Context

Plague is a bacterial infection that typically affects rodents and is most often transmitted from rodents to other animals and humans via flea bites. Bubonic plague is the most common form of the disease, characterized by swollen lymph nodes; it is fatal in 30 to 60 percent of cases. Pneumonic plague occurs when the bacteria infects the lungs; symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, pneumonia, chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, and sometimes bloody or watery mucous. It is the most virulent form of the disease and can be spread from person to person. Without prompt and effective treatment, pneumonic plague is always fatal. Plague can be treated with antibiotics.

Advice

Individuals in Madagascar are advised to take measures to protect themselves from insect bites (use insect repellents, wear long sleeved shirts and pants, etc.), to maintain strict standards of sanitation (cleanliness to discourage presence of rodents, elimination of rodent habitats outdoors - e.g. brush, rock piles, pet food, etc.), use flea control products on all pets, and avoid contact with potentially infected persons. Anyone presenting with the above symptoms is advised to seek immediate medical attention.