Madagascar plague outbreak case count reaches 500

In a follow-up on the Madagascar plague outbreak, the Ministere de la Publique reported an additional 51 news plague cases today, bringing the total cases since August to 500. On Oct. 11, 29 new pneumonic plague cases were reported, while and additional dozen bubonic plague cases were reported. 10 suspect cases were also recorded.

In addition, six additional deaths have been reported, bringing the total to 54. The capital city of Antananarivo saw an additional 37 cases, mostly pneumonic, and four deaths.

In a message from Minister of Communication and Relations with the Institutions, Harry Laurent Rahajason writes: This epidemic is our common enemy, we must defeat it. Immediately, the government mobilized all means of response. We worked in close cooperation with the World Health Organization, as well as multiple partners, international organizations and countries.

The Malagasy specialists in epidemiology and those of the Institut Pasteur are actively present in support of the Crisis Staff. The national plan of action against plague has been adapted to

the present situation, with the support of national and international partners.

First, we pay close attention to inpatients, and protect persons who have come into contact with them. In the affected areas, our teams are on the ground 24 hours a day.

Secondly, teams of international experts and doctors have been on the ground for several days and more are expected.

We have also strengthened airport controls. In order to protect our children, and in order not to expose them to allergies following the disinfection of the buildings, the return to school is postponed by one week on October 16, 2017.

We have temporarily suspended gatherings to the general public in places where the traceability of the participants is difficult if not impossible (stadiums, sports palaces, gymnasiums …).

The most important is to present yourself to the health services if you have symptoms such as sudden onset of fever, headache, cough, difficulty breathing or sputum with some blood. The health services will take care of you immediately and apply the appropriate treatment.

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