Measles in Mongolia

16 May 2016

The Ministry of Health in Mongolia has reported a measles outbreak affecting all provinces of the country that has been ongoing since the beginning of the year (2016). As of 6 May 2016, a total of 19 194 cases including 59 measles related infant deaths; the majority of cases are among students and infants. The worst affected area is the capital city of Ulan Bator.

A measles vaccination campaign has been launched which will target those aged 18-30 years; the campaign will run until 25 May 2016. The United Nations Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has provided 624 000 doses of measles vaccine.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-13 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months. 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.