Togo has declared measles outbreaks in the health districts of Blitta, in the Central Region, and Ogou, in the Plateaux Region, following a rise in cases since early September 2026.
Health Minister Jean-Marie Koffi Tessi announced the outbreaks on Wednesday, September 23. In a statement, he urged residents to remain vigilant and follow preventive measures to help limit the spread of the disease.
Vaccination remains central to the authorities’ response. The ministry said vaccination is the primary way to prevent measles and urged parents to check their children’s health records to make sure they have received the recommended doses under the Expanded Program on Immunization.
Strengthened Preventive Measures
In addition to vaccination, residents are being urged to take steps to reduce transmission. These include regularly washing hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, using disposable tissues, and coughing or sneezing into the bend of the elbow.
Health authorities also recommend watching for common symptoms. Measles can cause a high fever accompanied by a skin rash, as well as coughing, a runny nose or conjunctivitis. The disease can affect both children and adults.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads mainly through the air via droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread through direct contact with contaminated objects.
The Health Ministry said it has strengthened epidemiological surveillance, active case finding and public awareness efforts. The measures are intended to quickly identify infected people and bring the outbreaks in Blitta and Ogou under control.