TRENTO. They have been reported four cases of measles in adults to the local public hygiene services of the Prevention Department of the Trentino Health Authority. Two cases where reported in Val di Non, one in the rotaliana plain and one in the Giudicarie Valleys (non-resident person passing through).
In one case hospitalization was necessary, even though fortunately there were no serious consequences.In all four cases, close contacts were promptly identified through the epidemiological investigation and were invite people not covered by the vaccine to get vaccinated.
Measles is extremely contagious, there is no natural immunity or innate resistance to the virus; the only prevention measure is vaccination, highly recommended for children but also for adolescents and young adults who have never been vaccinated. Measles is a disease that can be eliminated from our territory if optimal vaccination coverage (greater than 95%) is achieved and maintained.
In Trentino, vaccination compliance has improved in the last five years and to date the percentage of children vaccinated for measles exceeds 95%, even if there are significant variations in the different territorial areas, with lower compliance in the Fiemme and Fiemme valleys. Fassa which stood at 92% in the last year, a figure which is still an improvement compared to the years in which the participation rate was around 88%.measles is often underestimated and considered a benign disease, even though in a significant percentage of cases it can give rise to serious complications such as pneumonia, middle ear infections, thrombocytopenia and neurological damage. When vaccination compliance is not optimal, the disease manifests itself as epidemics of limited size and spaced several years apart, affecting unvaccinated adolescents or young adults.
What are the symptoms of measles and how can it be distinguished from other illnesses?
Interview: Understanding the Recent Measles Cases in Trentino
Q: Thank you for joining us today. Can you explain the recent measles outbreak reported in Trentino?
Expert: Thank you for having me. Recently, four cases of measles in adults were reported to the Trentino health Authority. These cases were identified in different regions: two in Val di Non,one in the Rotaliana Plain,and one case involving a non-resident individual passing through the Giudicarie Valleys. Luckily, hospitalization was required for only one case, and there were no severe consequences.
Q: What measures are being taken to address this outbreak?
Expert: The public health officials have conducted an epidemiological investigation to identify close contacts of the individuals affected. They have also encouraged those who are not vaccinated to get immunized as soon as possible.Vaccination is critical, especially given that measles is extremely contagious and no natural immunity exists for this virus.
Q: why is vaccination so critically important, especially in preventing diseases like measles?
Expert: Vaccination is vital as it is indeed the only preventive measure against measles. Children, adolescents, and even young adults who have never been vaccinated are encouraged to receive the vaccine. Measles can lead to serious health complications,including pneumonia,middle ear infections,thrombocytopenia,and even neurological damage. It’s often underestimated as a benign illness, which can lead to gaps in vaccination coverage and sporadic outbreaks.
Q: What is the current vaccination compliance rate in Trentino?
Expert: over the last five years, vaccination rates in Trentino have improved substantially. Currently, vaccination coverage for measles exceeds 95% among children. However, there are notable discrepancies in different areas, such as the Fiemme and Fassa valleys, which reported a compliance rate of 92%.While that’s an improvement from previous years, it still highlights the need for continuous public health efforts in these regions.
Q: What does a vaccination coverage of over 95% mean for public health?
Expert: Achieving and maintaining vaccination coverage above 95% is crucial for the elimination of measles from our territory. It helps establish herd immunity, which protects those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants and individuals with certain health conditions. Without this coverage, we risk encountering limited-sized outbreaks, particularly among unvaccinated adolescents and young adults, spaced years apart.
Q: What practical advice would you give to our readers regarding measles vaccination?
Expert: I would advise everyone, especially parents, to verify thier vaccination status and ensure their children are fully vaccinated against measles. For those who are hesitant or have concerns about vaccines, seeking details from reliable health professionals can provide clarity and peace of mind. It’s important to remember that vaccines save lives and are an essential health defense for our communities.
Q: Thank you for your insights. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Expert: Just a final thought: as we see an uptick in reported cases, it is crucial to remain vigilant and prioritize public health initiatives that promote vaccination.staying informed and proactive ensures not just individual health but the greater well-being of our community. Thank you for having me!