Laboratory confirmation of measles cases in GREECE, February-March 2024

Following the rise of measles cases on both a global and European level, the surveillance of the virus was strengthened even more in Greece, according to W.H.O. recommendations. Suspect cases were confirmed by using a combination of serological and molecular methods, whereas sequencing was implemented to determine the measles strains circulating in the country. In total, 18 cases were confirmed in February and March, with clusters of measles recorded in three administrative regions. Sequencing revealed that genotypes B3 and D8 were both present in the country and further phylogenetic analysis classified the D8 sequences into two sub-groups. The co-circulation of the B3 and D8 genotypes in Greece is consistent with data from other countries at the same time period. The use of both serological and molecular methods for the confirmation of measles cases is advisable, as it increases the possibility of assessing immunization gaps within the community as well as applying specific measures for the timely mitigation of the infection.