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Measles outbreak among school-aged children--Juneau, Alaska, 1996
Abstract:
An outbreak of measles among school-aged children occurred in Juneau, Alaska, from February 16 through April 25, 1996. Of 63 confirmed cases, 47 were serologically confirmed, and virus was cultured from 15; a total of 41 (65%) were among school-aged children (i.e., aged 6-18 years). This report summarizes results of the epidemiologic investigation conducted by the Division of Public Health, Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (ADPH), which found evidence of measles transmission at schools despite high rates of coverage with one dose of measles-containing vaccine (MCV).
Insights
A measles outbreak in Juneau, Alaska, affected school-aged children despite high measles-containing vaccine (MCV) coverage. The investigation revealed ongoing measles transmission within schools, highlighting challenges in achieving herd immunity.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- Measles outbreaks can occur even with high vaccination rates.
- School-aged children are a vulnerable population for infectious disease transmission.
- Understanding transmission dynamics is crucial for effective public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a measles outbreak in Juneau, Alaska, during 1996.
- To identify the extent of measles transmission among school-aged children.
- To evaluate the impact of measles-containing vaccine (MCV) coverage on outbreak dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Conducted an epidemiologic investigation of confirmed measles cases.
- Collected serological data and performed virus cultures for confirmation.
- Analyzed case demographics, focusing on school-aged children (6-18 years).
Main Results:
- 63 confirmed measles cases occurred between February 16 and April 25, 1996.
- 41 cases (65%) were among school-aged children.
- Evidence indicated measles transmission within schools despite high one-dose MCV coverage.
Conclusions:
- Measles transmission can persist in schools even with substantial vaccination rates.
- High coverage of one dose of MCV may not be sufficient to prevent school-based outbreaks.
- Further strategies are needed to enhance measles control and prevention in school settings.