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Suboptimal measles-mumps-rubella vaccination coverage facilitates an imported measles outbreak in ireland
Suzie Coughlan1, Jeff Connell, Bernard Cohen
1National Virus Reference Laboratory, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland. Suzie.Coughlan@ucd.ie
Abstract:
The year 2000 saw a dramatic increase in the incidence of measles infections in Ireland, with >1500 cases documented. Initial cases were reported from an area of Dublin with low vaccine uptake and a large immigrant population. Molecular epidemiologic findings revealed that the strain of measles virus responsible for this outbreak was the genotype D2 strain, which is closely related to strains initially identified in South Africa. It is suggested that suboptimal vaccine uptake facilitated the spread of imported measles infection.
Insights
Ireland experienced over 1500 measles cases in 2000, primarily in Dublin. Low vaccination rates and an imported D2 genotype strain facilitated this significant measles outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Measles outbreaks pose a significant public health challenge.
- Understanding viral genotypes and transmission patterns is crucial for control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cause of a measles outbreak in Ireland in 2000.
- To identify the measles virus genotype and its origin.
Main Methods:
- Molecular epidemiology was used to analyze the measles virus strain.
- Case data and geographic distribution were examined.
Main Results:
- Over 1500 measles cases were documented in Ireland in 2000.
- The outbreak was linked to the genotype D2 measles virus strain.
- Initial cases were concentrated in an area with low vaccine uptake and a significant immigrant population.
Conclusions:
- The genotype D2 measles strain, likely imported, caused the 2000 outbreak.
- Suboptimal vaccine uptake was a key factor enabling the spread of measles infection.