Measles Outbreak Continues in South Africa

The South African National Institute for Communicable Diseases recently confirmed a measles outbreak had been declared in all the provinces in South Africa except for the Eastern Cape since late 2022.

In week #18, seven new measles cases were reported from Limpopo province. 

In total, 1004 measles cases have been reported as of May 18, 2023.

The measles strain detected in Limpopo province and North West province is genotype D8, similar to the strain in Zimbabwe in the 2022 outbreak.

Globally, measles outbreaks are occurring in numerous countries.

Therefore, the U.S. CDC suggests ensuring international travelers are protected before departure.

Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease, with various vaccines offered in most countries.