Italy: Almost 2000 measles cases reported since January

Event

Italian health officials have announced that 1920 cases of measles have been reported in the country since the beginning of 2017 through the end of April. Cases have been reported in 18 of 21 regions. Of the reported cases, 90 percent were of individuals who were fully unvaccinated and the most impacted age group is 15-39 years, which accounts for 56 percent of all cases. The World Bank estimates the measles vaccination rate in Italy is 85 percent, well under the 95 percent level recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Context

The WHO has warned that measles outbreaks are spreading across Europe in countries where vaccination rates sit below the recommended 95 percent level, particularly in France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Switzerland, and Ukraine.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that typically affects mostly children. It is transmitted via droplets from the nose, mouth, or throat of infected persons. The disease remains one of the leading causes of death among young children globally, despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine.

The first sign of measles is usually a high fever, which begins approximately ten to 12 days after exposure to the virus and lasts four to seven days. A runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks can develop in the initial stage. After several days, a rash erupts, usually on the face and upper neck. Over about three days, the rash spreads, eventually reaching the hands and feet. The rash lasts for five to six days and then fades. On average, the rash occurs 14 days after exposure to the virus (within a range of seven to 18 days).

Advice

Individuals are advised to ensure their vaccinations are up to date and, if experiencing any of the above symptoms, are encouraged to seek medical attention.