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Severe measles outbreak in western Kenya
B Burström1, P Aaby, D M Mutie
1International Child Health Unit, University of Uppsala, Sweden.
East African Medical Journal
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Measles outbreaks show case clustering increases mortality, especially in infants under one year. Low vaccine efficacy (18%) highlights the need for alternative infant protection strategies during outbreaks.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Research
Background:
- Measles outbreaks pose significant public health challenges, particularly in regions with lower vaccination coverage.
- Infant populations are especially vulnerable during measles outbreaks due to immature immune systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the determinants of measles mortality during an outbreak in Siaya district, Kenya.
- To assess measles case fatality rates, particularly among infants.
- To evaluate measles vaccine efficacy in the studied population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of measles cases during an outbreak in Siaya district.
- Identification of epidemiological factors associated with measles mortality.
- Calculation of case fatality rates and vaccine efficacy.
Main Results:
- Clustering of measles cases was identified as a significant determinant of mortality.
- A high proportion of measles cases occurred in infants under one year of age.
- Case fatality rates were higher than previously reported, with infants being most affected.
- Measles vaccine efficacy was found to be low, at 18%.
Conclusions:
- Measles case clustering is a critical factor influencing mortality during outbreaks.
- Infants under one year are disproportionately affected, experiencing higher mortality rates.
- The low observed vaccine efficacy necessitates exploring alternative strategies for infant protection against measles.