1. What is this study about?

This study describes the investigations and public health response actions carried out during a measles outbreak declared in November 2022 in Mpumalanga Province. Cases were reported from all districts in the province; however, the majority were from two sub-districts.

2. Why does this matter?

Measles remains a major public health threat worldwide, with an estimated 9.2 million cases and 136 000 deaths reported in 2021. In the African region, many countries continue to experience ongoing measles transmission and outbreaks due to inadequate vaccination coverage. As a vaccine-preventable disease, measles is targeted for elimination. Responding effectively to outbreaks is essential and can help identify any gaps that exist in routine immunisation programmes.

3. What drew your interest to this area of research?

In public health, outbreak investigations are crucial, as they help identify the source and implement measures to control and prevent future outbreaks. This was a large measles outbreak, with over 100 cases reported. As a result, it offered an opportunity to identify immunity gaps in the community and the development of strategies to improve vaccination coverage. Documenting these findings and recommendations is important in the control and prevention of future outbreaks.

4. What was your role in the study?

I formed part of a team that compiled and organised data collected from the epidemiological investigations, including case investigations for suspected cases, patient interviews, and contact tracing. I also played a role in the management and analysis of the collected data to guide the investigations, as well as take the lead in writing up the findings.

5. Why should people read this article?

This article highlights the importance of childhood immunisations, as they help prevent the transmission of highly infectious diseases such as measles. The public health actions described can be applied in other parts of the country in future measles outbreaks.

6. What impact do you hope this study will have on public health policy and access to healthcare?

My hope is that this article can raise awareness of measles as a vaccine-preventable disease. I hope the findings will influence the development of strategies to achieve high vaccination coverage for the measles vaccine at all levels, as this is crucial in preventing outbreaks. It is important for children who have missed routine immunisations to receive catch-up doses to protect them from infection. Suspected cases of measles must also be investigated thoroughly and promptly to prevent further transmission.

Ms Naume Dibuile Tebeila is a field epidemiologist in the Division of Public Health Surveillance and Response, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, based in Mpumalanga. 

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