MSF Topic:

Lessons and challenges for measles control from unexpected large outbreak, Malawi

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Lessons and challenges for measles control from unexpected large outbreak, Malawi Authors: Minetti, Andrea; Kagoli, Matthew; Katsulukuta, Agnes; Huerga, Helena; Featherstone, Amber; Chiotcha, Hazel; Noel, Delphine; Bopp, Cameron; Sury, Laurent; Fricke, Renzo; Iscla, Marta; Hurtado, Northan; Ducomble, Tanya; Nicholas, Sarala; Kabuluzi, Storn; Grais, Rebecca F; Luquero, Francisco J Abstract: Despite high reported coverage for routine and supplementary immunization, in 2010 in Malawi, a large measles outbreak occurred that comprised 134,000 cases and 304 deaths. Although the highest attack rates were for young children (2.3%, 7.6%, and 4.5% for children <6, 6-8, and 9-11 months, respectively), persons >15 years of age were highly affected (1.0% and 0.4% for persons 15-19 and >19 years, respectively; 28% of all cases). A survey in 8 districts showed routine coverage of 95.0% for children 12-23 months; 57.9% for children 9-11 months; and 60.7% for children covered during the last supplementary immunization activities in 2008. Vaccine effectiveness was 83.9% for 1 dose and 90.5% for 2 doses. A continuous accumulation of susceptible persons during the past decade probably accounts for this outbreak. Countries en route to measles elimination, such as Malawi, should improve outbreak preparedness. Timeliness and the population chosen are crucial elements for reactive campaigns.

Women experience a better long-term immune recovery and a better survival on HAART in Lao People's Democratic Republic.

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Women experience a better long-term immune recovery and a better survival on HAART in Lao People's Democratic Republic. Authors: Bastard, Mathieu; Soulinphumy, Khamphang; Phimmasone, Prasith; Saadani, Ahmed Hassani; Ciaffi, Laura; Communier, Arlette; Phimphachanh, Chansy; Ecochard, René; Etard, Jean-François

Clinical Manifestations and Case Management of Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever caused by a newly identified virus strain, Bundibugyo, Uganda, 2007-2008

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Clinical Manifestations and Case Management of Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever caused by a newly identified virus strain, Bundibugyo, Uganda, 2007-2008 Authors: Roddy, Paul; Howard, Natasha; Van Kerkhove, Maria D; Lutwama, Julius; Wamala, Joseph; Yoti, Zabulon; Colebunders, Robert; Palma, Pedro Pablo; Sterk, Esther; Jeffs, Benjamin; Van Herp, Michel; Borchert, Matthias Abstract: A confirmed Ebola haemorrhagic fever (EHF) outbreak in Bundibugyo, Uganda, November 2007-February 2008, was caused by a putative new species (Bundibugyo ebolavirus). It included 93 putative cases, 56 laboratory-confirmed cases, and 37 deaths (CFR = 25%). Study objectives are to describe clinical manifestations and case management for 26 hospitalised laboratory-confirmed EHF patients. Clinical findings are congruous with previously reported EHF infections. The most frequently experienced symptoms were non-bloody diarrhoea (81%), severe headache (81%), and asthenia (77%). Seven patients reported or were observed with haemorrhagic symptoms, six of whom died. Ebola care remains difficult due to the resource-poor setting of outbreaks and the infection-control procedures required. However, quality data collection is essential to evaluate case definitions and therapeutic interventions, and needs improvement in future epidemics. Organizations usually involved in EHF case management have a particular responsibility in this respect.

Implementation and Utilisation of Community-based Mortality Surveillance: a case study from Chad

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Implementation and Utilisation of Community-based Mortality Surveillance: a case study from Chad Authors: Bowden, Sarah; Braker, Kai; Checchi, Francesco; Wong, Sidney