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Nosocomial transmission of measles: an updated review
E Botelho-Nevers1, P Gautret, R Biellik
1POLMIT Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Université Aix-Marseille, 27 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France.
Abstract:
Despite a decrease in global incidence, measles outbreaks continue to occur in developed countries as a result of suboptimal vaccine coverage. Currently, an important mode of measles transmission appears to be nosocomial, especially in countries where measles is largely under control. We therefore conducted a review of the literature by searching PubMed for the term "measles" plus either "nosocomial" or "hospital acquired" between 1997 (the date of the last review in the field) and 2011. The reports indicate that measles is being transmitted from patients to health care workers (HCWs) and from HCWs to patients and colleagues. Here, we explain how outbreaks of measles occurring in healthcare settings differ in some ways from cases of community transmission. We also highlight the need for all HCWs to be immunized against measles.
Insights
Measles outbreaks persist in developed nations due to low vaccination rates. Healthcare settings are key transmission sites, with measles spreading between patients and healthcare workers (HCWs).
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Measles incidence has decreased globally but outbreaks persist in developed countries.
- Suboptimal vaccine coverage is a primary driver of ongoing measles transmission.
- Nosocomial (hospital-acquired) transmission is a significant concern, particularly in regions with controlled measles spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review literature on nosocomial measles transmission.
- To understand transmission dynamics within healthcare settings.
- To emphasize the importance of healthcare worker (HCW) immunization.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of PubMed using terms 'measles' and 'nosocomial' or 'hospital acquired'.
- Inclusion of studies published between 1997 and 2011.
- Analysis of reported transmission patterns between patients, HCWs, and colleagues.
Main Results:
- Measles transmission occurs from patients to HCWs.
- Measles transmission also occurs from HCWs to patients and other HCWs.
- Healthcare-associated measles outbreaks exhibit distinct characteristics compared to community transmission.
Conclusions:
- Healthcare settings are critical venues for measles transmission.
- All healthcare workers (HCWs) require measles immunization.
- Enhanced infection control measures and vaccination are crucial to prevent nosocomial measles.
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