Impact of Mass Measles Campaigns among Children Less Than 5 Years Old in Uganda

In 1999-2001, a national measles control strategy was implemented in Uganda, including routine immunization and mass vaccination campaigns for children aged 6 months to 5 years. This study assesses the impact of the campaigns on measles morbidity and mortality. Measles cases reported from 1992 through 2001 were obtained from the Health Management Information System, and measles admissions and deaths were assessed in six sentinel hospitals. Measles incidence declined by 39%, measles admissions by 60%, and measles deaths by 63% in the year following the campaigns, with impact lasting 15 to 22 months. Overall, 64% of measles cases were among children <5 years of age, and 93% were among children </=15 years old. The cost per child vaccinated was $0.86. Routine immunization coverage remained low, at 61% in 2001. To eliminate measles in Uganda, routine immunization should be strengthened, campaigns should be conducted among those <15 years of age, and nationwide case-based measles surveillance should be put in place.