The epidemiological and clinical characteristics of measles in Wenzhou, China, 2000-2010

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Z W Xu1, Y P Chen, M J Yang

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children's Hospital of Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, China.

Epidemiology and Infection
|March 20, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Measles outbreaks occurred every 3-4 years in Wenzhou, China, affecting many infants and older children. High hospitalization rates for pneumonia and susceptibility in infants highlight the need for improved measles vaccination strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Epidemiology
  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Measles remains a significant public health concern globally.
  • Understanding local epidemiological patterns is crucial for effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the epidemiological and clinical features of measles in Wenzhou, China, from 2000 to 2010.
  • To identify risk factors and vulnerable populations for measles infection.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective analysis of reported measles cases in Wenzhou.
  • Examination of clinical data for hospitalized patients.
  • Assessment of serum measles antibody levels in infants.

Main Results:

  • A total of 13,271 measles cases were reported between 2000 and 2010, with epidemics every 3-4 years.
  • Infants (<1 year) and individuals >14 years constituted a significant proportion of cases (45% and 27.2%, respectively).
  • Pneumonia was a common complication (66.3%) among hospitalized cases, with three deaths due to respiratory failure. Infant susceptibility was high by 6 months of age.

Conclusions:

  • Sustained measles transmission in Wenzhou is linked to a substantial pool of unvaccinated children.
  • Decreased passive measles antibody transfer from vaccinated mothers contributes to infant susceptibility.
  • Targeted vaccination efforts and public health interventions are necessary to control measles outbreaks.

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