“Measles has killed 12 children in Tanzania” – official says

A total of 12 children have died of measles in south-western Tanzania’s Mlele district since December, local media reported, citing district commissioner Majid Mwanga.

Mr Mwanga added that 847 children had been infected with measles in the district between December and February.

“Health workers have so far vaccinated 16,480 children and are continuing with the exercise,” Mr Mwanga said.

The government has urged people in the area to abandon false beliefs – such as that their children died after being bewitched – and get them vaccinated.