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Published on: January 7, 2019
Abstract:
Measles is an important cause of morbidity and mortality among the children of India. In spite of this it is not considered a serious problem by the health authorities. Practically no cases are reported, and only those children with significant complications are hospitalized. Thus hospital records do not reflect the magnitude of the problem. In recent years attention has been focused on the evaluation of the morbidity and mortality due to measles in India. In the absence of reliable estimates, it is presumed that almost everyone in India suffers from measles before the age of 10 years. Hospital-based studies have found that 20%-70% of children with measles develop minor and major complications. On the basis of the few hospital-based studies and community surveys, it appears that the mortality rate due to measles is 3%-15%, depending on the health-care system in the community. All available data point to the necessity of immunization programs against measles, but logistical and economic constraints have prevented introduction of measles immunization in the Expanded Programme on Immunization. A limited experience with measles vaccine in India has shown that practically no cases occur among immunized children and that seroconversion rates are excellent. It is urgent to create awareness among health authorities, physicians, and health workers of the problem of measles.
Insights
Measles causes significant illness and death in Indian children, yet is underestimated. Immunization is crucial, as vaccines are effective and prevent measles cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Measles is a major contributor to child morbidity and mortality in India.
- The severity of measles in India is underestimated by health authorities, with few cases reported.
- Hospital records do not accurately reflect the true burden of measles due to underreporting and hospitalization criteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the morbidity and mortality associated with measles in India.
- To highlight the discrepancy between the presumed prevalence of measles and reported cases.
- To emphasize the urgent need for measles immunization programs in India.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing hospital-based studies and community surveys on measles complications and mortality.
- Analysis of available data to estimate measles incidence and impact.
- Assessment of measles vaccine efficacy based on limited Indian experience.
Main Results:
- An estimated 90-100% of Indian children contract measles before age 10.
- Complications affect 20-70% of children with measles.
- Mortality rates range from 3-15%, varying with healthcare access.
Conclusions:
- Measles poses a significant public health threat in India, necessitating urgent attention.
- Measles immunization is highly effective, with excellent seroconversion rates and minimal cases in vaccinated children.
- Logistical and economic barriers hinder the integration of measles vaccination into national immunization programs, requiring focused awareness campaigns.
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