15 Feb 2024 | 10:42 AM UTC
Austria: Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas, especially Tyrol and Vienna, in February
Elevated measles activity reported in multiple areas in Austria in February. Tyrol and Vienna are most affected. Confirm vaccination.
Austrian health officials have reported elevated measles activity in multiple areas, with 75 confirmed cases reported Jan. 1-Feb. 13. This is compared to the 10 cases reported in Austria during a similar period in 2023. Tyrol (27 cases) is the most affected state, followed by Vienna (25 cases), Lower Austria (9 cases), Burgenland (6 cases), Styria (5 cases), and Upper Austria (3 cases). Austrian health officials have urged the public to check their measles vaccination status, and to get their measles vaccination up to date if necessary. This report represents the most complete data available as of Feb. 15.
Visit a doctor to ensure vaccination against measles or immunity through previous infection. Practice basic health precautions. Call your medical provider if symptoms develop within three weeks of being in affected areas.
Measles vaccination coverage in the UK was estimated at 95 percent in 2022, which falls within the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Health authorities reported roughly 186 measles cases nationwide in Austria in 2023, one case in 2022, one case in 2021, and 25 cases in 2020.
Measles is a very contagious viral disease that spreads through respiratory droplets created when an infected individual coughs, sneezes or speaks. Infected individuals can also expose people around them by contaminating surfaces with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. Symptoms typically appear 7-14 days after exposure but can develop up to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms generally include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a red rash that begins on the face and spreads downward. Serious complications - including pneumonia - can occur, especially in children younger than five years old, adults older than 20 years old, and individuals with a weakened immune system.
