Madagascar: Decrease in new plague cases /update 10

Event

Health officials announced that as of Saturday, November 4, 31 of the 40 districts affected by the current plague outbreak have been declared free of the disease. Contamination rates have slowed but high vigilance should still be exercised. At least 131 people have died from pneumonic plague since the beginning of the current outbreak in August and 1200 cases of the disease have been confirmed.

Containment measures are still in place with authorities placing checkpoints on roads leading to the remaining affected areas intended to identify potential cases of the illness. While authorities continue to carry out disinfection campaigns, schools have reopened throughout the country on November 6, with sanitary controls expected to take place each day before the start of classes. Universities will however remain closed until further notice and a ban on public gatherings and meetings is still in effect.

Individuals should still allow time for 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.