Measles outbreaks in the Pacific

Since 2017, there has been a global resurgence of measles, including in several countries of the Western Pacific Region. The last declared outbreak of the measles in the Pacific occurred in 2014.

However, following recent large-scale outbreaks in neighbouring nations to the Pacific and the significant population movements between these countries and the Pacific island countries, confirmed measles outbreaks have been reported in Fiji, Samoa and Tonga.

Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that spreads easily though the air. It can cause serious complications, including blindness, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), severe diarrhoea, ear infection, and pneumonia. More information about the disease can be found here.

Communicating about measles

To help Pacific health authorities communicate about measles, WHO and UNICEF have developed a Pacific Measles Preparedness and Response Communication Toolkit.

The toolkit is a regional resource that countries can use and adapt to their country’s needs. It includes a range of communication products targeting three main audiences: general public, health workers and travellers.

Products in the toolkit include: social media posts, airport banners/signage, posters, health worker advisory posters, measles pamphlets, short motion graphics and more.

Click here for a brief presentation on the toolkit, its contents and how to use it.

• Queries regarding the measles situation in the Pacific, should be directed to Measles2019@who.int
• Requests for support to use or adapt the above-communications package should be directed to aynsleyt@who.int