Compiled Body of Works in Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (EFELTP)
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Date
2021-05
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Addis Abeba University
Abstract
Background: Measles is a highly infectious virus transmitted through contact with fluids from an infected person's respiratory secretions. Measles causes high morbidity and mortality particularly in developing countries. An average of 10-15 measles cases per year were reported in western and north western zone of Tigray region during the previous 4 years. We investigated an occurrence of extended measles transmission in a remote area to confirm the existence of outbreak, identify the etiologic agent and provide guidance on prevention and control measures.
Methods: A descriptive study was conducted and case definition for measles was applied, a suspected measles case was defined as any person with fever and maculopapular rash, and cough,conjunctivitis, or coyrza or a patient diagnosed with measles by a clinician. From January 28- 31,2011 attempts were made to identify all cases by collecting a line list of cases from health
facilities in the affected zones and data was analyzed by MS-Excel. Blood specimens from 5 suspected cases were collected in December 2010.
Result: From October 2010 to January, 2011 a total of 408 clinically suspected cases and 16 deaths were reported. The case fatality rate was 4%. The median age of suspected cases was 18.3 years (range 3 months-36 years) and 228 (56%) cases were ≥ 15 years of age. Three quarters(75%) of cases were male. The majority of cases, 352 (88%), were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. The attack rate of 10/10,000 was highest in the western zone where 379 (93%) cases were reported. In the North western zone there were 29 (7.1%) cases with an attack rate of 2/10,000. Of the 5 blood specimens collected for testing 3 (60%) were positive for measles
specific IgM.
Conclusion and recommendation: A laboratory confirmed outbreak of measles occurred over a period of 5 months in primarily affecting those ≥15 years of age. The older age of those affected in this outbreak combined with low levels of measles immunization suggests that both routine and
supplementary immunization activities need strengthening Immunization campaigns may need to include older ages groups to improve herd immunity.
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Epidemiology