Measles and Mumps Outbreaks

Measles and mumps remain common diseases in many parts of the world, including some developed countries. For travellers, the risk for exposure to measles and mumps can be high, and both diseases can be prevented by the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.

Outbreaks of measles in several European countries (Belarus, Denmark, Germany, Greece, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Ukraine) that were reported in 2006 have waned in all countries except Ukraine, where the outbreak is ongoing. In addition, measles outbreaks are being reported from Kenya and Tanzania. A measles outbreak in Venezuela, South America that began in April 2006 has also waned.

Recent outbreaks of mumps have also been reported among adolescents and young adults in the United States and United Kingdom.

The mumps outbreak in the United Kingdom is ongoing.

Recommendations for travellers

All travellers should be fully immunized and keep a copy of their immunization record with them as they travel.