Measles in a highly vaccinated society: The 2007-08 outbreak in Israel

Emilia Anis, Itamar Grotto, Larisa Moerman, Bruce Warshavsky, Paul E. Slater, Boaz Lev, Avi Israeli

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

42 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Despite success in controlling measles through a national immunization program, Israel recently experienced its largest measles outbreak since 1994. Methods: Using data reported by health district offices to the Ministry of Health, an epidemiological analysis of the 2007-08 measles outbreak was performed. Results: 1467 measles cases were reported in Israel, primarily among ultra-orthodox Jewish communities in the Jerusalem Health District and to a lesser extent in other areas. The highest age-specific incidence rate (122.5 per 100,000) occurred among infants. 38.6% of all measles patients were under the age of five, and 53.4% were under the age of ten. 186 patients (12.7%) were hospitalized; there were no fatalities. Only 4.6% of measles patients had been fully vaccinated for their age. Conclusion: To minimize the risk of future outbreaks in Israel, successful marketing of the MMR vaccine to under-vaccinated sub-groups is essential.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)252-258
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Infection
Volume59
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Oct 2009

Keywords

  • Control measures
  • Measles outbreak
  • Sub-groups
  • Vaccination coverage

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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