Measles in Nigeria
25 August 2010
The Minister of Health has raised concerns about the recent increase in measles cases within the country.
As of 19 Aug 2010, 4 771 measles cases have been recorded, this compares with 455 cases for the same time period of 2009. The Government has taken steps to increase vaccine coverage in an effort to reduce the number of measles cases to that of previous years.
Advice for travellers
It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk.Two doses of MMR vaccine is required to give adequate protection.