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Mumps epidemic in Portugal despite high vaccine coverage - preliminary report
Abstract:
A measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) trivalent vaccine was added to Portugal's National Immunisation Programme (NIP) in 1987. All vaccines are given at health centres, free of charge, but an epidemic of mumps began in 1995, firstly in northern Portugal and
Insights
Portugal introduced the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in 1987. Despite this, a mumps epidemic started in 1995, indicating potential challenges with vaccine effectiveness or implementation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Portugal's National Immunisation Programme (NIP) incorporated the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) trivalent vaccine in 1987.
- Vaccinations are administered at health centers, free of charge, aiming for widespread coverage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the emergence of a mumps epidemic in Portugal following the introduction of the MMR vaccine.
- To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of the mumps outbreak that began in 1995.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of mumps incidence data in Portugal.
- Geographical mapping of the initial mumps outbreak in northern Portugal.
Main Results:
- An epidemic of mumps was observed starting in 1995.
- The outbreak initially concentrated in the northern region of Portugal.
Conclusions:
- The introduction of the MMR vaccine did not immediately prevent a mumps epidemic in Portugal.
- Further investigation is needed to understand the factors contributing to the mumps outbreak despite vaccination efforts.