Epidemiology of Measles in Sudan

Abstract

Few epidemiological studies have been undertaken of measles disease among Sudanese, although measles is the third leading cause of death since 1995 among childhood diseases that can be prevented by immunization. The measles vaccine was introduced into the EPI program in 1985. In the run-up to the introduction of the vaccine, the country suffered from measles epidemics periodically and extensively, ranging from 50,000 to 75,000 cases and from 15,000 to 30,000 deaths per year. Simple actions can save a million lives of children through immunization coverage, eye care programs, maternal and child health education, maintaining and improving the general nutritional status of Sudanese children. Continuous surveillance and monitoring systems and evaluation are essential tasks at all levels to improve performance, identify and address problems throughout establishing and increasing the surveillance system. This review highlights a brief overview of measles epidemiology in Sudan and determinants of a measles outbreak, clinical symptoms, complications, and surveillance sites and the ways for prevention and control of measles disease. The review established that it is crucial to enforce coordination between governmental and non-governmental agencies for an effective disease surveillance system in the area, especially in those affected by civil wars.