The effect of COVID-19 pandemic on routine immunization: A case study of measles outbreak in Kambia District, Sierra Leone, October 2021

Abstract

Measles is one of the leading causes of death among children under five in Africa. Studies showed that COVID19 has affected routine health services, including immunization services. We investigated to confirm the diagnosis, identify the source, mode of transmission, instituted control and prevention measures. We interviewed caregivers and community people to find the source of infection. We used case investigation form to collect demographic, clinical, travel, and contact data. We conducted active case search in communities and health facilities. We collected blood samples to test for measles antibodies and isolated case patients to prevent transmission. A total of 60 measles cases were reported, five were laboratory confirmed and 55 by epidemiological link. The median age was 4 years (range: 4 months – 23 years). Females accounted for 67% of the cases. No travel history was reported. Bamoi Luma's Measles-Rubella vaccination coverage was 28%. Only 20 patients (12%) received measles vaccination and vitamin A supplementation. Measles outbreak was confirmed with more cases in the community. Factors contributed to this outbreak included low vaccination coverage, impact of COVID-19 pandemic on routine health services, and contact with measles cases. We recommend routine measles vaccination and community sensitization on measles prevention.