Number of cases of measles has increased - Health Minister criticizes vaccine opponents

Increased number of cases of measles: Minister of Health admonishes vaccination opponents

Although measles are still dismissed by some people as a harmless childhood disease, but the infectious disease affects even adults. In Bavaria, the number of measles cases rose again slightly this year. The Minister of Health of the Free State warns vaccination opponents.

More measles cases in Bavaria

The number of measles cases in Bavaria rose slightly in 2017 compared to the previous year. The Minister of Health of the Free State, Melanie Huml, pointed this out and simultaneously campaigned for vaccinations. "The development in the measles cases shows that there is still picking in the population. It is important to protect yourself and other people - especially infants and people with weakened immune systems who can not be vaccinated themselves. That should also consider vaccination opponents, "said the Minister.

The number of measles cases in Bavaria rose slightly in 2017 compared to the previous year. This development shows that there is still picking in the population. The Minister of Health of the Free State warns vaccination opponents. (Image: Stock Photos-MG / fotolia.com)

Infection can be fatal

"Measles are highly contagious. In addition, this disease can take a very heavy course. In many cases even a hospital stay is necessary. It can lead to serious health consequences, "warned Huml.

The infectious disease is transmitted by droplet infection.

It begins with flu-like symptoms such as high fever, cough and runny nose. Later follows the characteristic rash.

In general, measles weaken the immune system. As a result, it can come to, among other things, bronchitis, otitis media or pneumonia. In rare cases, the infection can be fatal.

The disease is particularly dangerous in infants and toddlers.

Reportable illness

Measles are a notifiable disease according to the Infection Protection Act. By the 18th of December 2017, 51 measles cases have been reported in Bavaria (1st to 50th reporting week). There were 32 cases in the same period in 2016 and a total of 33 cases in 2016 as a whole.

Looking back at the years before, however, a declining trend is emerging. In 2015, a total of 165 measles cases were registered in 2015, compared to 113 in the previous year and 775 in 2013.

However, according to experts, it can always come back to years with higher measles numbers.

Discussions about compulsory vaccination

In connection with the disease is repeatedly discussed a possible measles vaccination in Germany.

In Italy, such was introduced a few months ago by statute.

A majority of Germans would welcome such a measure, but many experts are against it. They rely more on education than vaccination.

Vaccination also for adults

In Germany, the measles vaccine is recommended for children from the eleventh month of life, for infants in a daycare from the ninth month.

According to the Ministry of Health, the vaccination rate among school children in Bavaria is now over 91 percent.

Adults should also check their measles vaccine protection if necessary.

According to the minister, "There are still some pickings for young adults. For example, all adults born after 1970 should check their vaccination certificate, "says Huml.

"Only those who have been immunized against measles once in their childhood twice or adulthood have complete protection," said the health minister, who pointed out that infection with the infectious disease is "thanks to the vaccine avoidable". (Ad)