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An outbreak of measles, Koro Island, 1997

Eric Rafai1

  • 1Ministry of Health, Suva Fiji Islands.

Pacific Health Dialog
|January 10, 2008
PubMed

Insights

A 1997 Measles outbreak on Koro Island was linked to vaccine failure and compromised cold chains. Implementing a two-dose Measles immunization schedule and enhancing surveillance are crucial for Measles elimination.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Measles outbreak on Koro Island in spring 1997.
  • 245 suspected cases identified, most virulent in pre-adolescent and adolescent groups.
  • Crowded living and transport conditions facilitated virus spread.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the causes of the 1997 Measles outbreak on Koro Island.
  • To determine the effectiveness of Measles immunisation strategies.
  • To recommend measures for achieving Measles elimination targets.

Main Methods:

  • Identification of suspected Measles cases.
  • Clinical assessment of disease severity and age groups affected.
  • Laboratory confirmation of Measles IgM in 88% of tested specimens.
  • Analysis of contributing factors including housing, transport, vaccination, and cold chain integrity.

Main Results:

  • Measles outbreak primarily affected pre-adolescent and adolescent populations, causing absenteeism.
  • Confirmed Measles IgM in 88% of specimens.
  • Outbreak attributed to primary vaccine failure and reduced population immunity due to cold chain breaches.
  • Crowded housing and transport exacerbated virus transmission.

Conclusions:

  • Primary vaccine failure and compromised cold chain integrity led to the Measles outbreak.
  • A two-dose Measles immunization schedule is recommended to achieve sustained population immunity.
  • Strengthening surveillance, immunisation coverage, and cold chain systems are essential for Measles elimination by 2005.

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