Romania: Over 5000 measles cases reported since 2016

Event

European health officials announced that at least 5119 cases of the measles have been recorded in Romania since the beginning of 2016. The virus has killed 24 people during the same time period. Thirty-eight out of 42 districts in Romania reported cases of the virus; Caras Severin was the most severely affected, with 965 cases recorded. Nearly 97 percent of the total measles cases reported were in unvaccinated individuals.

According to local media sources, Romania has run out of the measles vaccine, however the Romanian Health Minister, Florian Bodog, has stated that stocks would be replenished by May 10.

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.