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Jamaica's measles elimination experience.
J M Hirshon1, B Irons, P Figueroa
1Division of Vaccines and Immunization, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
American Journal of Public Health
|August 5, 1999
Summary
Jamaica has successfully eliminated measles through a targeted vaccination strategy. This achievement demonstrates the feasibility of global measles eradication efforts.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Measles poses a significant global health threat, necessitating eradication strategies.
- Jamaica has historically faced measles incidence, prompting targeted public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe Jamaica's comprehensive strategy for measles elimination.
- To evaluate the impact of these interventions on measles incidence in Jamaica.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of routine measles vaccination.
- Conduction of a one-time catch-up vaccination campaign in 1991.
- Execution of periodic follow-up vaccination campaigns, starting in 1995.
Main Results:
- No indigenous measles cases confirmed serologically since 1991.
- Sustained interruption of measles virus circulation in Jamaica.
- Effective surveillance systems maintained throughout the elimination process.
Conclusions:
- Jamaica has successfully interrupted measles virus circulation.
- The Jamaican experience supports the achievability of global measles eradication.
- Targeted vaccination campaigns are crucial for eliminating endemic measles transmission.