Outbreaks of measles and chickenpox in eastern Uttar Pradesh, India

AimThe sudden increase in number of cases of fever with rash at five sites in Uttar Pradesh, India was surveyed to establish the aetiology and investigate the extent of the disease.MethodsWe case defined, measles as a person with acute onset of fever, cough, coryza or conjunctivitis with maculopapular rash and a case of chickenpox as a person with acute onset of diffuse maculopapulovescicular rash. Blood samples were collected from clinically suspected cases and tested for anti-measles IgM/anti-VZV IgM and IgG antibody (depending on the clinical features) by ELISA. Detailed history was collected from each case including history of contact and immunization.ResultsConfirmed measles outbreaks were identified at 2/5 sites. There was neither any death nor any serious complications due to measles. However, varicella outbreaks were confirmed in 3/5 sites with one mortality.ConclusionMeasles and chickenpox are still widespread in North India. Therefore, vaccination for varicella and better coverage of first dose and introduction of second dose opportunity for measles to susceptible population in affected areas is suggested.