Measles Outbreak Driven by Nosocomial Transmission, Armenia, February-July 2023

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Measles outbreaks pose a significant public health threat, particularly to vulnerable populations.
• Nosocomial transmission of infectious diseases is a critical concern in healthcare settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the epidemiology of a measles outbreak in Armenia from March to July 2023.
• To identify transmission patterns and risk factors, including healthcare-associated exposures.
• To inform strategies for preventing future measles transmission in healthcare facilities.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of measles cases reported between March and July 2023 in Armenia.
• Data collection on patient demographics, vaccination status, and exposure history.
• Tracing of transmission chains to identify sources and locations of exposure.

Main Results:

• A total of 287 measles cases were identified, with 130 patients (45%) under 5 years of age.
• A high proportion of cases (215, 75%) were unvaccinated.
• Analysis of 3 transmission chains involving 183 cases revealed that 70% were exposed in healthcare facilities.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights the vulnerability of young children and unvaccinated individuals during measles outbreaks.
• Healthcare facilities were significant sites for measles transmission, indicating a need for enhanced infection control measures.
• Promoting measles vaccination among healthcare workers is crucial to prevent nosocomial spread and protect patients.