TRENTO. A case of measles in an unvaccinated child residing in Valle di Fassa was reported to the Trentino health authority.
Measles is extremely contagious, there is no natural immunity or innate resistance to the virus. For this reason the only prevention measure is vaccination, highly recommended for children but also for adolescents and young adults who have never been vaccinated.
The Prevention Department of the Provincial Health Services Company, to counter the spread of new cases of measles and to eliminate the disease in the province of Trento – underlines a note – invites all parents, who until now have not signed up for vaccination to have their children vaccinated.
Following the reporting of the case they were pediatricians and general practitioners have been alerted who operate in the Fiemme and Fassa area of the Eastern district since there could be new cases in children and adolescents in the coming weeks.
The last important measles epidemic in Trentino occurred in 2010 with more than 500 sick children, adolescents and young adults. Measles is a disease that can be eliminated from our territory if optimal vaccination coverage (greater than 95%) is achieved and maintained.
In Trentino, in the last 5 years, membership of the vaccination has improved and, to date, the percentage of children vaccinated for measles exceeds 95%but there are significant variations in the different territorial areas. Particularly in the Fassa and Fiemme valleys, vaccination compliance is decidedly lower: for years, compliance rates have remained around 88%, improving only in the last year (92%), probably due to an underestimation of the disease, wrongly considered completely benign, but which, in a significant percentage of cases, can give rise to sometimes serious complications such as pneumonia, middle ear infections, thrombocytopenia and neurological damage. When vaccination compliance is not optimal, the disease manifests itself with epidemics of limited dimensions spaced several years apart which affect unvaccinated people in adolescence or young adults.
What lessons from past measles outbreaks are influencing current public health strategies in Trentino?
Interview Between Time.News Editor and Dr. Maria Rossi, Epidemiologist at Trentino Health Authority
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Rossi! Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent case of measles reported in Valle di Fassa. This is a concerning public health issue. Can you tell us a bit more about the situation and why it’s critical to address it now?
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! Yes, the recent case of measles in an unvaccinated child underscores the urgent need for vaccination. Measles is highly contagious, and without natural immunity, the only effective way to prevent outbreaks is through vaccination.
Editor: We understand that vaccination is particularly crucial for certain age groups. Could you elaborate on the demographics that are most at risk and why?
Dr. Rossi: Certainly. Children are at the highest risk, but adolescents and young adults who have never been vaccinated are also vulnerable. The measles virus can spread rapidly in communities with lower vaccination rates. When we see a resurgence like this, it’s important for all segments of the population to ensure they are protected.
Editor: The Trentino Health Authority has made some recommendations following this reported case. What specific actions are being taken to combat potential further outbreaks?
Dr. Rossi: Our Prevention Department is actively reaching out to parents who haven’t signed their children up for vaccinations. We urge them to do so immediately. Additionally, healthcare providers in the affected areas, like pediatricians and general practitioners, are being alerted to monitor for new cases and educate families about the importance of vaccinations.
Editor: There was a significant measles epidemic in Trentino back in 2010. How does that experience inform your current strategies for combating the disease?
Dr. Rossi: The 2010 epidemic taught us invaluable lessons about the importance of community immunity. It highlighted how quickly the virus can spread when vaccination rates drop. Now, we’re committed to proactive communication and engagement with the community to boost vaccination rates and prevent another outbreak.
Editor: Some parents may still have concerns about the vaccine’s safety. What do you say to those who are hesitant?
Dr. Rossi: Vaccine hesitancy is a significant challenge, but I encourage parents to seek information from reliable sources. Vaccines undergo rigorous testing for safety and efficacy. The benefits of vaccination in preventing serious diseases like measles far outweigh the risks. It’s crucial for the health of our children and the community.
Editor: Lastly, what can the general public do to support the vaccination efforts in their communities?
Dr. Rossi: Spreading awareness is key. Parents can talk to friends and family about the importance of vaccinations, share factual information on social media, and encourage others to consult healthcare providers about getting vaccinated. Community engagement can dramatically increase immunity levels and protect everyone.
Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Rossi. Your insights are invaluable as we navigate these public health challenges. Let’s hope that efforts to boost vaccination rates are successful, ensuring the safety of our communities.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for highlighting this critical issue. Together, we can make a difference!