LOMÉ, Togo — Togo has declared measles outbreaks in the Blitta and Ogou health districts, following an increase in reported cases since the beginning of September.

Health Minister Jean-Marie Koffi Tessi announced the outbreak declaration on September 23, with authorities moving to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and the identification and management of suspected cases.

Vaccination is at the centre of the response. Health authorities are urging parents and caregivers to check children's vaccination records and ensure that recommended measles doses have been received through the national immunisation programme.

Authorities are also increasing public awareness about symptoms and preventive measures. Measles can cause high fever, skin rash, cough and conjunctivitis and is highly contagious, spreading mainly through respiratory droplets.

The government is strengthening active case finding, health surveillance and early-warning measures in an effort to limit transmission in the affected districts.

The outbreak adds to Togo's wider efforts to improve infectious-disease monitoring and strengthen rapid responses to public-health threats.