An outbreak of measles in Trafford

In the autumn of 1993 an outbreak of measles occurred in Trafford, Greater Manchester, associated with two junior schools. Thirty-four cases were reported. Twenty-five of the 32 cases whose ages were known were aged between 7 and 11 years. The mean age was 8.6 years, and the median and modal age was 10. Two of the cases had received measles vaccine. Eighteen of the 19 cases who provided samples were confirmed as measles by laboratory tests. The incident showed that extensive resources are needed to investigate such outbreaks and implement control measures, and identified problems with the local child health computer system. The outbreak did, however, provide an opportunity to immunise children within the district who had not previously received measles vaccine. It is important for unprotected siblings of affected children to be vaccinated to prevent the secondary spread of infection, and all cases of measles should be notified promptly so that outbreaks can be identified.