Measles Resurgence Alert: ECDC Flags Escalating Cases and Urges Vigilance
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has issued a grave warning about the alarming surge in measles cases, signaling a potential crisis in the upcoming months. This surge is attributed to a significant increase in cases towards the end of 2023, an inadequacy in vaccine coverage, and the impending seasonal peak of the virus.
Unpacking the Factors Behind the Surge
The ECDC emphasizes that the surge in cases is predominantly a consequence of the decline in coverage of measles-containing vaccines during the COVID-19 pandemic period from 2020 to 2022. This global dip in vaccination rates has contributed to a spike in travel-related cases, with Yemen, India, and Ethiopia reporting the highest numbers in 2023. In Europe, outbreaks have been documented in Romania, Austria, and France.
Alarming Statistics: 7 Deaths Across 2 Countries
As of now, the ECDC has recorded an increasing number of countries reporting measles cases, reaching a total of 2,361 cases, with 5.4% of them being imported. Unfortunately, the toll includes at least seven reported deaths, with six fatalities in Romania and one in Ireland.
Vaccine Coverage Challenges in Europe
Despite Europe experiencing a relatively smaller decline in measles-containing vaccine coverage during the pandemic compared to other regions, many European countries still fall below the critical 95% coverage required for achieving and sustaining measles elimination.
ECDC’s Urgent Recommendations
ECDC officials are urgently calling on countries to bridge vaccine gaps, enhance measles surveillance, raise awareness among healthcare professionals, and promote vaccine acceptance within communities through targeted interventions.
Global Measles Spread: CDC Issues Alert as Cases Rise
In a parallel development, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued an alert, urging healthcare providers to remain vigilant due to the ongoing global surge in measles cases. As of February 15, 20 cases have been reported across 11 states.
Unveiling a Measles Variant: European Scientists Share Concerns
Variant Identification and Test Sensitivity
Swiss researchers, in a recent publication in Eurosurveillance, disclosed the identification of a measles variant with mutations leading to a slight reduction in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test sensitivity. This could potentially result in false negatives, particularly in samples with a low viral load. The variant has been detected in 18 countries since December 2021, and while the numbers are decreasing, its circulation persists.
Italian Confirmation and Additional Insights
In the latest Eurosurveillance issue, Italian researchers added to this concern, reporting five similar detections in Milan and surrounding areas. These viruses were classified as genotype 8, with no apparent epidemiologic links. Notably, three patients had travel histories, including Uzbekistan, Thailand, and southern Italy. This corroborates the Swiss findings, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness regarding variant circulation and the potential for reduced sensitivity in diagnostic tests.
In conclusion, the global community, healthcare providers, and policymakers must take immediate and comprehensive actions to address the rising measles cases, enhance vaccination coverage, and stay vigilant against emerging variants that could impact diagnostic testing.
