April 20, 2018
Measles is an ongoing health issue in Europe, and this year’s disease activity reflects a continuation of outbreaks that began in 2017 (or earlier). “Measles starts with fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes, and sore throat. It’s followed by a rash that spreads over the body. Measles virus is highly contagious virus and spreads through the air through coughing and sneezing.” (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
An increase in measles cases has been reported in the following European region countries: France, Greece, Italy, Romania and Ukraine.The most affected areas include New Aqintaine region in France; southern Greece; Calabria, Lazio, Sicily and Tuscany in Italy; and Chenivetsk, Ivano-Frakivsk, Lviv, Odessa and Zakarpatie in Ukraine. Most people infected had never been vaccinated against measles, or did not complete the entire vaccination series.
For more information:
- European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)
- ECDC monthly measles and rubella monitoring reports
- University Health Services
Travel Advice
- It is highly recommended to ensure you are immune to measles (if you’ve had measles before or if you’ve received two doses of the vaccine) before travelling.
- It is advised to keep young children and other people who are not immune to measles away from outbreak areas.
- If you are unsure about your immunity and may have been exposed, or if you develop symptoms, seek medical attention. Call International SOS to set up an appointment and let them know you’ve been exposed to measles or have the symptoms, so clinic staff can protect themselves and other patients from this very contagious virus.
As always, if you are abroad and in need of immediate assistance (medical or security related) please call International SOS at 215-942-8478 or UTPD at 512-471-4441.