Current measles epidemic situation in Niger

This year has seen an exponential rise in measles cases compared to 2020. According to Niger’s Ministry of Public Health, the first quarter of 2021 recorded 3,213 cases, a stark increase from 1,081 cases during the same period last year—nearly triple the number. By April, suspected measles cases had surpassed 6,000. The outbreak has already resulted in 15 deaths, with 27 out of 73 health districts now classified as measles epidemic zones. The hardest-hit regions include Agadez, Dosso, and Tahoua.

Measles is 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 combat it effectively. However, many health centers in Niger report vaccination rates below 50%. In areas like Diffa, Tillabéry, and Tahoua, deteriorating security conditions—leading to population displacements—have disrupted access to primary healthcare, further lowering vaccination rates. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has also strained routine and catch-up vaccination campaigns.

Challenges faced by MSF teams in Niger

The emergence of Covid-19 cases in Niger in March 2020 triggered widespread fear, leading to reduced visits to health centers. This decline resulted in fewer mothers bringing their children for routine vaccinations.

The pandemic also strained healthcare staff, with many medical workers testing positive or being exposed to the virus, reducing workforce availability. Healthcare efforts were redirected toward pandemic response, impacting preventive measures. Additionally, medical supplies faced delays due to border closures and restrictions. To address the measles outbreak, MSF has imported nearly 700,000 vaccine doses into the country, ensuring preparedness for emergencies.

Low vaccination turnout has been observed in recent weeks, partly due to confusion with Covid-19 vaccination. Communities in Niamey and Tillabéry, for instance, have refused vaccinations. To counter this, MSF has intensified community engagement and sensitization efforts, emphasizing the severity of measles, its impact on children’s health, and the critical need for vaccination to break transmission chains.

Epidemiological outlook for the coming months

The situation in Niger remains dire, reflecting the decline in routine vaccination coverage and preventive healthcare. Similar trends have been observed with meningitis, which has already affected over 1,100 people in the country. If routine or catch-up vaccinations do not resume, the consequences could persist for years.

As the country approaches the seasonal peaks for malaria and malnutrition, health officials are closely monitoring trends. Last year’s malaria season was particularly severe in both scale and duration, lasting until January 2021—longer than usual. Combined with alarming projections for food security and malnutrition this year, heightened vigilance is essential, especially in less-funded regions like Maradi and Zinder, which are farther from conflict epicenters.