[Investigation on an outbreak of measles caused by new virus (d11 genotype) imported from Myanmar]

Yan-kun Pang1, Li-qun Li, Zheng-rong Ding

  • 1Yunnan Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Kunming 650022, China.

Abstract

Insights

Imported measles cases from Myanmar, identified as d11 genotype, caused an outbreak. Measles vaccination (MV) was effective in controlling the spread and preventing d11 genotype infections.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Virology
  • Public Health

Context:

  • Measles outbreaks pose a significant public health challenge, particularly with the emergence of new viral genotypes.
  • Imported cases can rapidly spread, highlighting the need for robust surveillance and control measures.

Purpose:

  • To investigate the factors contributing to a measles outbreak caused by an imported d11 genotype virus from Myanmar.
  • To develop and evaluate effective control strategies, including emergency measles vaccination (MV).

Summary:

  • An outbreak in Menglian county involved 29 measles cases, with 14 imported from Myanmar. Genotyping confirmed the d11 genotype, originating from Myanmar.
  • The outbreak primarily affected unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated individuals. Emergency measles vaccination (MV) was implemented, achieving a high inoculation rate and antibody-positive response.
  • Timely MV emergency vaccination effectively controlled the measles outbreak, demonstrating its efficacy against the imported d11 genotype.

Impact:

  • The study underscores the risk of imported measles leading to epidemics and the challenges in measles elimination efforts.
  • Emergency measles vaccination (MV) proved effective in interrupting disease transmission and preventing d11 genotype measles infections.