Measles – A Threat That Can Be Controlled
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) predicts an increase in measles cases this spring in the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA). Eight out of ten people diagnosed with measles in the EU/EEA last year were not vaccinated; consequently, vaccination with two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the safest and most effective way to protect against this highly contagious disease.
According to the ECDC report, the highest number of reported measles cases in EU/EEA countries in 2024 was reported during the first six months of the year. The highest numbers of cases were reported in Romania, Italy, Germany, Belgium, and Austria.
The spread of measles among both children and adults indicates that vaccination coverage is insufficient. This is also confirmed by Lithuania's measles incidence statistics – 26 cases were recorded in the first half of 2024 (86.7% of all measles cases). It is predicted that the number of measles cases will continue to rise in the spring of 2025.
Insufficient Vaccination Coverage
To prevent measles outbreaks and protect vulnerable population groups (such as children too young to be vaccinated, pregnant women, and individuals in immunosuppressive conditions), 95% of the population needs to be vaccinated with two doses of the MMR vaccine. However, in Lithuania, as in other EU/EEA countries in 2024, vaccination rates did not meet this target.
According to ECDC data, most cases in 2024 occurred among children aged one to four years and adults aged thirty and older. In Lithuania, 66.7% of the infected were individuals aged 30 and older (Figure 1).
Figure 1.
Childhood Immunization Schedule
The MMR vaccine is included in the Lithuanian vaccination schedule. The first dose is given to babies at 15–16 months of age, and the second dose is administered when the child is 6–7 years old. If, for any reason, a child has not been vaccinated timely, there is an option for catch-up vaccination. In such cases, the child’s family doctor or paediatrician should be contacted.
ECDC Recommendations
The rapidly spreading measles infection can disrupt normal social life, as many infected individuals are hospitalized due to severe complications. The most dangerous complications of measles include pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. In 2024, 43% of all measles cases in Lithuania required hospitalization (Figure 2).
Therefore, the ECDC recommends checking your vaccination status and, if necessary, getting vaccinated or revaccinated (getting another dose). It is also recommended to stay vigilant and pay attention to the typical symptoms of measles (high fever, cough, runny nose, red, watery eyes, and rash) and seek medical attention in a timely manner.
Figure 2.
Last updated: 20-03-2025
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