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A measles outbreak among young adults in Victoria, February 2001
Natasha Davidson1, Ross Andrews, Michaela Riddell
1Victorian Public Health Training Scheme, Department of Human Services, Melbourne, Australia. natasha.davidson@mh.org.au
Abstract:
In January 2001 a 19-year-old Sydney resident, who had recently returned from India, visited Melbourne for 4 days while infectious with measles. A further 50 measles cases were subsequently identified, mainly among young adults. Thirty-eight cases (75%) were in the same birth cohort (born between 1968 and 1981). This cohort was identified as being at high risk of measles infection after a previous outbreak in Victoria involving 75 cases. These individuals are now aged between 20 and 33 years. A high proportion of cases, 22 (43%) were hospitalised after multiple visits to various healthcare providers. None of the cases had documentation of receiving the recommended number of doses of measles-containing vaccine for their age. Repeated outbreaks clearly demonstrate that young adults remain the group at highest risk of measles infection in Victoria. More targeted strategies for young adults and healthcare workers are required to better protect these groups against measles.
Insights
Young adults in Victoria are at high risk for measles outbreaks, with many cases linked to a specific birth cohort. Targeted vaccination strategies are needed for this group and healthcare workers.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Measles outbreaks continue to pose a significant public health risk, particularly among specific demographics.
- Young adults born between 1968 and 1981 have been identified as a vulnerable population in Victoria due to previous outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a measles outbreak in Melbourne linked to a traveler returning from India.
- To identify the demographic groups most affected and assess vaccination status.
- To inform public health strategies for measles prevention.
Main Methods:
- Case investigation following a measles-infected traveler's visit to Melbourne.
- Analysis of case demographics, focusing on birth cohort and vaccination history.
- Review of healthcare utilization among infected individuals.
Main Results:
- A total of 50 measles cases were identified, primarily among young adults.
- Seventy-five percent of cases (38 individuals) belonged to the 1968-1981 birth cohort.
- Forty-three percent of cases (22 individuals) required hospitalization, often after multiple healthcare visits. No cases had documented adequate measles-containing vaccine doses.
Conclusions:
- Young adults, especially those born between 1968 and 1981, represent a high-risk group for measles infection in Victoria.
- Inadequate measles vaccination coverage within this cohort contributes to recurrent outbreaks.
- Enhanced, targeted vaccination strategies for young adults and healthcare professionals are crucial for effective measles control.