From 1 August to 30 October 2017, a total of 1 801 suspected cases of plague, including 127 deaths (case fatality rate 7%), were reported.
November 3rd, 2017“……From 1 August to 30 October 2017, a total of 1 801 suspected cases of plague, including 127 deaths (case fatality rate 7%), were reported. Of these, 1 111 (62%) were clinically classified as pulmonary plague, 261 (15%) were bubonic plague, one was septicaemic, and 428 were unspecified (further classification of cases is in process). Since the beginning of the outbreak, 71 healthcare workers (with no deaths) have been affected.
Of the 1 111 clinical cases of pneumonic plague, 257 (23%) have been confirmed, 374 (34%) are probable and 480 (43%) remain suspected (additional laboratory results are in process). Fourteen strains of Yersinia pestis have been isolated and are sensitive to antibiotics recommended by the National Program for the Control of Plague.
Overall, 51 of 114 (45%) districts in 16 of 22 (73%) regions of Madagascar have been affected. Analamanga Region has been the most affected, with 64% (1 149) of all recorded cases.
About 83% (5 357) of 6 492 contacts identified thus far have completed their 7-day follow up and a course of prophylactic antibiotics. A total of nine contacts developed symptoms and became suspected cases. On 30 October 2017, 925 out of 972 (95%) contacts under follow-up were reached and provided with prophylactic antibiotics. ….”