Investigation of the effectiveness of measles vaccination in children in Kenya
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Abstract:
Laboratory studies were performed on 128 children clinically diagnosed as measles when seen at the Infectious Diseases Hospital, Kenyatta National Hospital (IDH), Nairobi (86 cases) and the Rural Health Training Centre, Maragua, Central Province (42 cases) between 9 July and 31 August 1984. A concurrent measles infection was confirmed in 95% of the children seen at IDH and in 85% of those seen at Maragua, with similar proportions of confirmations in children who had, and who had not, received measles vaccine. No differences in the number of sero-conversions nor in the absolute levels of acute or convalescent HI antibody titres could be detected between vaccinated and unvaccinated children. Analysis of the cases seen at Maragua indicates that about two thirds of the children who had received vaccine were protected. A pilot study of vaccinating children at 8 months and again at 12-13 months is suggested in an attempt to eradicate measles.
Insights
Measles vaccination effectiveness was studied in Kenyan children. While many vaccinated children showed protection, the study suggests a two-dose measles vaccine schedule may be needed for eradication.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Measles remains a significant public health concern, particularly in developing regions.
- Assessing vaccine effectiveness in real-world settings is crucial for public health strategies.
- Previous measles vaccination efforts may require re-evaluation based on current epidemiological data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the laboratory-confirmed measles infection rates in clinically diagnosed children.
- To assess the impact of prior measles vaccination on infection rates and serological responses.
- To investigate the effectiveness of the existing measles vaccine schedule in a specific population.
Main Methods:
- Laboratory confirmation of measles infection using serological markers.
- Comparison of infection rates between vaccinated and unvaccinated children.
- Analysis of HI antibody titres in acute and convalescent serum samples.
Main Results:
- High rates of confirmed measles infection were observed in both vaccinated and unvaccinated children.
- No significant differences in seroconversion rates or antibody titres were found between vaccinated and unvaccinated groups.
- Approximately two-thirds of vaccinated children in Maragua demonstrated protection against measles.
Conclusions:
- The current measles vaccination strategy may not provide complete protection in the studied population.
- A potential need for a modified vaccination schedule, such as a two-dose regimen, is indicated.
- Further pilot studies are recommended to explore alternative vaccination strategies for measles eradication.