Impact of alternative approaches to accelerated measles control: experience in the African region, 1996-2002.

From 1996 to 2000, several African countries accelerated measles control by providing a second opportunity for measles vaccine through supplemental campaigns. Fifteen countries completed campaigns in children aged 9 months to 14 years. Seven countries completed campaigns in children aged 9-59 months. In almost all countries that conducted campaigns in children aged 9 months to 14 years, measles deaths were reduced to near zero. In six countries, near-zero measles mortality has been maintained for 4-6 years. Supplemental immunization in children <5 years old was only partially effective (range, 0-67%) in reducing mortality. Measles cases decreased by 50% when routine vaccination coverage increased from 50% to 80%. Initial measles campaigns in children aged 9 months to 14 years, follow-up campaigns in those aged 9-59 months every 3-5 years, and increased routine coverage to 80% will be needed to reduce and maintain measles deaths in African countries at near zero.