As there has not been enough vaccination against measles for years, the number of illnesses and deaths increased last year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). It assumes 136,000 deaths worldwide – 43 percent more than the previous year – and around nine million cases (18 percent more), as reported Thursday in Geneva. Last year, 37 countries recorded major outbreaks, compared to 22 the year before.
Measles is a very contagious viral infectious disease. It is transmitted through droplets, for example when infected people cough or sneeze. Infected people usually first present with fever, cough, runny nose and inflammation of the nasopharynx, followed by a rash. One in ten people affected experience complications, including potentially fatal brain inflammation. Measles can be prevented by administering two doses of the vaccine.
About 83 percent of people worldwide have received a first dose of vaccination in their lifetime and 74 percent have received a second dose. According to the WHO, 95 percent of people would have to be vaccinated to prevent large outbreaks. The corona pandemic has disrupted vaccination programs in many countries. It is alarming that even after the pandemic, there is still no comprehensive vaccination there. African countries are particularly affected, but also India, Indonesia and Brazil. According to the WHO, vaccinations have saved more than 56 million lives since 2000.
According to AGES, there have been a total of 162 confirmed cases of measles in Austria this year, most of them in spring due to an outbreak in Styria and spread during a large wedding party. Last year, only one case of measles was reported in this country. Combined measles/mumps/rubella vaccination is recommended in Austria from nine months of age and is free for all age groups.
Service: www.ages.at/mensch/krank/krankserreger-von-a-bis-z/masern