06 Mar 2024 | 02:20 PM UTC
Romania: Elevated measles activity reported nationwide, especially in Braşov, in March
Elevated measles outbreak reported nationwide in Romania, especially in Braşov, in March. Obtain vaccination; use basic health precautions.
Romanian health officials have reported elevated measles activity nationwide, with more than 4,430 cases reported Jan. 1-March. 5. This is compared to the 62 measles cases reported over a similar period in 2023. Braşov (229.60 cases per 100,000 population at risk) is the most affected, followed by Mureș (192.21 cases per 100,000 population), Covasna (170.29 cases per 100,000 population), Giurgiu (110.20 cases per 100,000 population), Sibiu (85.09 cases per 100,000 population), Arges (77.85 cases per 100,000 population), Calarasi (68.46 cases per 100,000 population), and Ilfov (65.73 cases per 100,000 population). The Romanian Ministry of Health declared a nationwide measles epidemic on Dec. 5, 2023, to facilitate the vaccination of children aged between 9 and 11 months and older children who have not yet been vaccinated. This report represents the most complete data available as of March 6.
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 Romania was estimated at 83 percent in 2022, which is well below the 92-95 percent required to prevent wider community transmission. Romanian health officials reported roughly 2,805 measles cases in 2023, 17 in 2022, two in 2021, 1,004 in 2020, and 3,900 in 2019.
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.
