Measles in Philippines (Update)
06 Feb 2014
An outbreak of measles has been reported from Olongapo city in the province of Zambales, northwest of Manila. In the first two weeks of January 2014, 80 suspected cases were reported. Hospitals are reporting a steady stream of suspected cases seeking medical attention. Most of the cases are children under the age of 5 years.
During 2013, a total of 2232 measles cases including 55 deaths were recorded by the Philippines Department of Health. A large outbreak of measles is currently ongoing in Metro Manila.
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 are required to give adequate protection.