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[Switzerland eliminates measles. National Strategy for the Elimination of Measles 2011-2015]
D Koch1, J-L Richard, J Hanhart
1Abteilung Übertragbare Krankheiten, Eidgenössisches Department des Innern, Bundesamt für Gesundheit BAG, Schwarztorstr. 96, 3003, Bern, Schweiz. EPI@bag.admin.ch
Abstract:
The measles virus circulates within Switzerland in an endemic way leading to sporadic outbreaks. The most recent outbreak occurred in 2011. It lasted 9 months and had 687 reported cases. This is in contrast to 2012 when there were 66 cases,corresponding to an incidence of 8 cases per million inhabitants. During 2008-2010, the average national vaccination coverage for one or two doses of measles vaccine amounted to 92 and 83 % for 2-year-olds, 95 and 85 % for 8-year-olds, and 95 and 85 % for 16-year-olds, respectively. To improve the national vaccination coverage, the Federal Council adopted the National Strategy for the Elimination of Measles 2011-2015 in 2011.The strategy was drawn up in a participative process led by the Federal Office for Public Health.The cantons as key partners were represented by the Conference of the Cantonal Directors for Public Health and the Association of Cantonal Health Officers. The strategy pursues the vision of eliminating measles in Switzerland in order to protect the population against measles and its complications, including all persons who may not be vaccinated for medical reasons. The strategy comprises six axes of intervention:(1)political engagement and support by all stakeholders, (2)a targeted ≥ 95 % two-dose vaccination coverage for all 2-year-olds, (3)easier access and incentives for the booster vaccination for everyone in the 2-year-old age group up to those born in 1964, (4)communication and promotion, (5)uniform national outbreak control, and (6)targeted surveillance.
Insights
Switzerland implemented a National Measles Elimination Strategy in 2011 to combat endemic measles outbreaks. The strategy aims for high vaccination coverage and improved surveillance to protect the population.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Measles is endemic in Switzerland, with sporadic outbreaks like the 2011 event causing significant case numbers.
- Despite high vaccination coverage in some age groups (e.g., 95% for 8-year-olds receiving two doses), gaps exist, necessitating a focused national strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline and implement a comprehensive National Strategy for Measles Elimination in Switzerland for 2011-2015.
- To achieve measles elimination by protecting the entire population, including medically vulnerable individuals.
Main Methods:
- A participative process involving the Federal Office for Public Health and cantonal health authorities.
- The strategy is built upon six key intervention axes: political engagement, targeted vaccination coverage, improved access to booster doses, communication, national outbreak control, and surveillance.
Main Results:
- The strategy established a vision for measles elimination in Switzerland.
- Defined specific intervention areas including achieving a ≥95% two-dose vaccination coverage for 2-year-olds and enhancing outbreak control measures.
Conclusions:
- The National Measles Elimination Strategy provides a framework for comprehensive measles control in Switzerland.
- Successful implementation requires sustained political support, high vaccination uptake, and robust surveillance systems to protect public health.
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