Doubling of measles cases sparks fears of epidemic
Provisional figures compiled by the National Diseases Surveillance Centre (NDSC) show there were more than 500 cases in 2003, compared to 243 in 2002 and 241 in 2001.
In 2000, more than 1,600 cases occurred, mostly in the eastern region. Three children died - two of pneumonia-complicated measles and another from post-measles encephalitis.
Figures released yesterday by the NDSC show the uptake of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) is 15% below the national target. The minimum uptake level needed to avoid an outbreak is 95%.
Uptake rates for all other vaccines remain at between 7% and 8% below the national target rates.
Dr Suzanne Cotter, a specialist in public health medicine at the NDSC, said the only way to prevent a measles epidemic was to have every child vaccinated at 24 months.
“The vaccine will protect 95% of the children but a further vaccine is needed at four and five years to protect the 5% vulnerable group who, for whatever reason, did not develop the antibody,” she said.
More children were vaccinated during the 2000 outbreak because parents were more fearful their children would catch the disease. While uptake of the vaccine dropped to under 70% the following year, it has been gradually increasing since then.
Measles would be around as long as children remained unprotected, Dr Cotter warned. “It only circulates among humans and if we are protected as a group then we can get rid of it.”
Health board regions with low MMR uptake include the Eastern Regional Health Authority at 75% and the Western Health Board at 74%. The highest uptake was in the Midland Health Board, at 90%.
Skin rash.
Runny nose.
Eyes that are red and sensitive to light.
Hacking cough.
High temperature.
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