The Pattern of Measles in Calabar.

Abstract

Summary:  A review of 352 cases of measles admitted into the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, during a 2-year period showed that 80% of the patients were below 2 years of age with a peak incidence in the second half of the first year of life. While measles occurred throughout the year, the prevalence was highest during the dry season (November to May) and lowest in the rainy season (June to October). Bronchopneumonia and gastroenteritis were the commonest complications occurring in 57.4% and 15.9% of the cases respectively. The mortality rate was 2.8%. Deaths were due to associated bronchopneumonia in 80%, mal nutrition, laryngotracheobronchitis in 2% each and dehydration in 1% of cases. The relatively low mortality rate was probably due to early consultation and prompt treatment of complications, particularly pneumonia.