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Updated: Apr 27, 2026

Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection and Detection
Published on: February 7, 2019
[Measles re-emerging in the Ústí Region]
Abstract:
A report is given of a measles outbreak in healthcare workers and the general population that occurred in February to March in Ústí nad Labem. The source of infection was a man with a history of travel to India. The outbreak was primarily observed in the patients contacts and then spread widely to healthcare workers of the Masaryk Hospital in Ústí nad Labem. The outbreak further reached the general population including family contacts of the patients. By the end of March 2014, 171 measles cases were reported, 68 (39.8%) of which in healthcare workers. Cases we confirmed by laboratory analysis of IgM antibodies and IgG antibody dynamics and, possibly, by R-PCR. In addition to standard preventive anti-epidemic measures, the healthcare workers of the Masaryk Hospital were vaccinated with an extra dose of the Priorix vaccine. Measles cases were most often reported in the population born in 1970-1980. This age group was the target population for an extra dose of the Priorix vaccine. General recommendations have been formulated based on the experience from the outbreak.
Insights
A measles outbreak in Ústí nad Labem spread from a traveler, infecting 171 people, including many healthcare workers. Targeted vaccination with Priorix helped control the epidemic.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Measles outbreaks pose significant public health challenges, particularly in healthcare settings.
- Imported cases can rapidly spread within communities, affecting both the general population and healthcare workers.
- Identifying the source and transmission dynamics is crucial for effective control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on a measles outbreak in Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic.
- To analyze the outbreak's epidemiology, focusing on healthcare worker and general population involvement.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of implemented control measures, including vaccination.
Main Methods:
- Case identification and reporting of measles cases.
- Laboratory confirmation including IgM and IgG antibody testing, and potentially R-PCR.
- Implementation of standard preventive measures and supplementary vaccination campaigns.
- Analysis of demographic data, particularly birth years, to identify high-risk groups.
Main Results:
- A total of 171 measles cases were reported between February and March 2014.
- Healthcare workers constituted 39.8% (68 cases) of the total reported cases.
- The primary transmission occurred from an individual with recent travel history to India.
- The most affected demographic group was individuals born between 1970 and 1980.
- Supplementary vaccination with Priorix was administered to healthcare workers and the identified at-risk age group.
Conclusions:
- Measles outbreaks can severely impact healthcare facilities and their staff.
- Prompt implementation of vaccination and preventive measures is essential for outbreak control.
- Targeted vaccination strategies for specific age groups can be effective in mitigating measles transmission.
- Lessons learned from this outbreak can inform future public health responses to similar events.
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