Measles cases are increasing: Check vaccination status now
Since November 2016, around thirty new cases of measles have occurred in several cantons. The FOPH therefore calls on people to check their vaccination status and to catch up on the necessary vaccinations if necessary.
A total of 37 measles cases have been reported since November 2016 in the cantons of Ticino, Graubünden, Fribourg, Solothurn, St. Gallen and Zurich. Some cases have occurred during the vacation season, when many people were outside their usual environment, increasing the risk of transmission throughout Switzerland. Both children and adults have been affected by the cases.
Measles is a disease that can lead to serious complications: Meningitis occurs in one in 1000 cases, and pneumonia in about 10 to 60 in 1000 cases. Middle ear infections can also be a consequence. For about one of 3000 sick people dies of measles, even with the best medical care. There is no therapy against the virus.
The measles virus is highly contagious - and this after an infection already about five days before the outbreak of the disease.
Post-vaccination also possible after contact
The federal government is concerned: to prevent a greater spread of measles cases, the population should check their vaccination status and, if necessary, catch up on the necessary vaccinations. Two doses are required for complete protection. Usually, a combination vaccination of measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) is administered; the two doses last a lifetime.
Anyone who comes down with a fever and red spots should call to consult a health care provider. Good to know: After contact with a person who has measles, you can still be revaccinated within 72 hours.
Measles is a notifiable disease. The FOPH once again reminds doctors that they must report cases within 24 hours.
The last wave of measles broke out in Switzerland in 2010, when a 12-year-old girl died from the disease.
