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Measles outbreak among young adults in Victoria
1Communicable Diseases Section, Public Health Division, Department of Human Services, 17/120 Spencer Street, Melboume, Victoria, Australia 3000. Ross.Andrews@dhs.vic.gov.au
Communicable Diseases Intelligence
|March 31, 2001
Summary
A measles outbreak in Australia involved 30 young adults and an infant, with 57% of adults hospitalized. The measles virus strain was identified as genotype D, originating from a traveler returning from India.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Measles outbreaks pose significant public health risks, particularly in young adult populations.
- Imported cases can initiate localized transmission chains.
- Understanding viral genotypes aids in tracking disease spread and origins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and characterize a measles outbreak in young adults and an infant.
- To identify the transmission dynamics and potential sources of the outbreak.
- To determine the genetic makeup (genotype) of the measles virus involved.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory confirmation of measles cases.
- Epidemiological investigation of case contacts and exposure settings.
- RNA genotyping of the measles virus strain.
Main Results:
- The outbreak involved 30 young adults and 1 infant, with 17 (57%) young adults requiring hospitalization.
- The primary case was linked to international travel from India.
- Secondary transmission was suspected in a nightclub setting.
- The measles virus strain was identified as genotype 'D'.
Conclusions:
- This outbreak highlights the potential for measles importation and rapid spread within a susceptible population.
- Genotyping confirmed the specific measles virus strain, aiding in epidemiological tracing.
- Public health interventions are crucial to control measles transmission following imported cases.
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