Despite vaccination programs, measles remains a significant public health problem in many countries. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of measles outbreaks in high-income countries, but it is in low- and middle-income countries that the virus continues to cause recurrent, large-scale outbreaks, resulting in high mortality, particularly among children. However, with the World Health Organization's current measles eradication plan, these trends are expected to change as global efforts intensify to eliminate the disease.
Inadequate access to health care, the decline of expanded/essential programs on immunisation and their funding are responsible for many missed opportunities to vaccinate. In addition, conflict-generated population displacements and failures in epidemiological surveillance have exacerbated the problem. Furthermore, the global spread of misinformation through social media has fueled a fear and mistrust of vaccines, creating unfounded doubts about their safety and efficacy. All these factors contribute to the continued spread of the virus and resurgence of outbreaks.
These guidelines are intended for both medical and non-medical staff involved in controlling and managing outbreaks at all levels of the health care system. Efforts have been made to address the concrete problems faced by staff, based on recommendations of organisations such as the World Health Organisation and the experience gained by Médecins Sans Frontières.
These guidelines consist of eight chapters covering the epidemiology of the disease, treatment, vaccination and its impact, and the various aspects of outbreak response. To facilitate understanding and the implementation of activities, practical tools such as tables and lists (diagnosis/treatment of measles, vaccine preparation/storage, etc.), sample forms (laboratory tests, supplies), spreadsheets for monitoring, needs estimation (cold chain, treatments, vaccines, and materials, etc.), and for activity monitoring/evaluation are included in the appendices and are available online.