Clinical Laboratory Investigations of Measles Virus Infection among Symptomatic Patients in South Central Somalia: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Despite widespread vaccination, measles outbreaks still occur among vaccinated populations. The retrospective cohort study was designed to estimate the laboratory characterization of measles infection among symptomatic patients based on healthcare institutes in Somalia from January 2020 to December 2021. Patients' demographic variables, including age, gender, place of residence, feasible healthcare centers, socioeconomic status, previous history, and clinical features, were retrieved from the medical record. A total of 1180 patients were positive for measles (61.1% males and 38.9% females). A high prevalence of measles was seen in newborn babies and children aged 15 years (85%). The most affected province was Banadir (n=808, 68%), whereas the low prevalence was recorded in Galgadud and Middle Shebelle (1%). The highly affected district was Daynile with (n=142, 12.0%), whereas a low prevalence was recorded for Moqokori (0.01%). The prevalence of IgM antibodies was detected in 71.5% of the study population. Different signs & symptoms were examined, such as fever and skin rashes found in all of the study subjects (100%). The mortality was reported to be 0.10% in infants. The current study highlights the higher prevalence of measles in the population due to an immature immune system, weak vaccination plans, poor hygiene, malnutrition, fewer healthcare facilities, and a lack of awareness regarding infectious diseases.