Measles in the Philippines

13 Mar 2018

According to media quoting government sources  the number of measles cases in the Philippines in the first 5 weeks of the 2018 is nearly 3 times the number recorded in the same period in 2017.

From 1 January to 3 February 2018 there were 877 measles cases, including 12 deaths.

Measles outbreaks have been declared in Zamboanga, Davao, Taguig cities, and in 7 towns inj Negros Oriental.

Advice for Travellers

Travel may increase an individual’s risk of exposure to measles virus, and facilitate the spread of disease to unvaccinated and susceptible populations. Two doses of MMR vaccine, at least one month apart, are required to give adequate protection.

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 4 months. Unvaccinated adults who have not had measles themselves should seek advice from a healthcare professional regarding measles vaccination.

For further information see Measles.