Europe is currently facing a substantial public health challenge—a widespread measles outbreak. The situation has escalated to the point where health authorities are warning that it is unlikely to resolve in the near future. According to reports from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Romania has been grappling with a measles epidemic since February 2016, with 4,025 cases reported between September and March 31 of the following year. Other outbreaks across the European Union have been traced back to this Romanian crisis, with cases emerging in Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden.
In January alone, the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded over 500 measles cases in the WHO European Region, including 17 fatalities in Romania by March 10. Italy reported 238 cases in January 2017, with similar expectations for February. The WHO has indicated that as long as vaccination coverage remains below the critical 95% threshold necessary to prevent outbreaks, the disease will continue to spread, putting the region at risk for further outbreaks.
This raises concerns that the situation in Europe could potentially lead to the disease reaching the United States. Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that 91.9% of children aged 19 to 35 months in the U.S. have received at least one dose of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, this figure varies significantly by state. For example, only 86% of children in Colorado, Ohio, and West Virginia have received at least one dose, creating a vulnerable population that could easily trigger an outbreak.
The CDC has highlighted that one in twelve children in the U.S. are not receiving their initial dose of the MMR vaccine, indicating substantial susceptibility to measles nationwide. The risk of importing the disease remains a concern, especially given that the most significant outbreaks in 2014 were linked to unvaccinated groups, often due to philosophical or religious beliefs.
Furthermore, the CDC advises that adults without documented immunity should receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine, with two doses recommended for international travelers, particularly those heading to Europe. Travelers who are not protected against measles face higher risks of infection abroad and may inadvertently introduce the virus upon returning home.
In January, countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Romania, Switzerland, and Ukraine collectively reported 474 measles cases, with numbers expected to rise. All these nations have vaccination rates below the essential 95% threshold. While 2016 and 2015 saw relatively low cases of measles in the U.S., the potential for a resurgence reminiscent of the 2014 outbreak remains. That year, international travelers brought the virus into unvaccinated communities, resulting in 383 cases, primarily among the Amish population in Ohio.
It is crucial that Europe improves its vaccination rates to prevent a repeat of the past. For those interested in family planning, exploring options like the at-home insemination kit may provide insight into alternative family-building methods. For additional information on fertility-related topics, the CDC offers excellent resources. Additionally, consider boosting your fertility to enhance your chances of conception.
Summary
Europe is currently facing a significant measles outbreak, primarily linked to low vaccination rates in several countries. The situation poses risks not only for European nations but also for the United States, where pockets of unvaccinated populations could lead to new outbreaks. It is essential for health officials to address vaccination coverage to prevent further spread of the disease.
Leave a Reply