Mariama Hamani
measles cases surge in Niger: causes and response
Dr. François Rubona, medical coordinator for Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in Niger, highlights the escalating measles crisis. Since February, MSF teams have initiated vaccination campaigns across multiple regions to combat early measles outbreaks. Here’s a detailed look at the current epidemic situation.
measles epidemic in Niger: current situation
This year, Niger has seen a dramatic spike in measles cases compared to 2020. Official data from the Nigerien Ministry of Public Health reveals that by the end of the first quarter of 2021, the country had already recorded 3,213 cases, a stark increase from 1,081 cases during the same period last year—nearly triple the figure. By April, suspected measles cases had surged past 6,000, with 15 deaths reported. Alarmingly, 27 out of 73 health districts are now classified as measles epidemic zones, with Agadez, Dosso, and Tahoua being the hardest-hit regions.
Measles remains one of the most contagious viral diseases globally and a leading cause of child mortality. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a 95% vaccination coverage to curb its spread. However, in many health centers across Niger, vaccination rates hover around just 50%. In areas like Diffa, Tillabéry, and Tahoua, deteriorating security conditions—marked by population displacements—have severely disrupted access to primary healthcare, further lowering immunization rates. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has compounded these challenges by imposing additional constraints on routine and catch-up vaccination campaigns.
challenges faced by MSF teams in Niger
The emergence of Covid-19 in Niger in March 2020 sparked widespread fear, leading to a significant drop in health center visits. Consequently, fewer mothers brought their children for routine vaccinations. The pandemic also strained medical personnel, with health workers testing positive or being contact cases, reducing available human resources in health facilities. Resources were further diverted to pandemic response, sidelining preventive health activities. Importing medical supplies became increasingly difficult due to border closures and restrictions. This year, MSF has imported nearly 700,000 vaccine doses to address the epidemic and bolster emergency preparedness.
Another hurdle has been the low public participation in vaccination efforts, often confused with Covid-19 immunization. In cities like Niamey and regions such as Tillabéry, some communities have outright refused vaccination. To counter this, MSF has ramped up community engagement and awareness campaigns, emphasizing the severity of measles and the critical need for child immunization to break transmission chains.
measles epidemic forecast for the coming months
The measles situation in Niger remains dire, reflecting a decline in routine vaccination coverage. Similar trends have been observed with meningitis, which has seen over 1,100 cases this year. If routine or catch-up vaccinations do not resume, the repercussions could extend for years to come.
As Niger braces for the seasonal peaks of malaria and malnutrition, health authorities are closely monitoring trends. Last year’s malaria peak was particularly severe, both in magnitude and duration, persisting until January 2021. Combined with grim projections for food security and malnutrition, the need for heightened vigilance is urgent. This is especially critical in regions like Maradi and Zinder, which often receive less attention from donors due to their distance from conflict zones.
Boureima Amadou
