2023-11-30 20:17:00
An outbreak of measles has affected the canton of Geneva since the end of October 2023. As of November 30, a total of 6 confirmed cases of measles have been reported in the canton, and 750 contact persons have been identified and contacted. At the end of November 2023, the situation seemed under control.
Faced with this situation, the Department of Health and Mobility of the canton of Geneva has issued the following recommendations.
He recalls the importance of vaccination with two doses against measles and invites people born after 1963 to check their vaccination record. Also, vaccination is necessary for people born after 1963 who:
have never had measles (disease confirmed by a doctor); have had a single dose of vaccine; after research are unable to obtain this information.
Identified contact persons are informed. It is necessary to quickly check whether they are protected (two doses of measles vaccine). If this is not the case, it is possible – and strongly recommended given the potential seriousness of the disease – to be vaccinated within three days following exposure.
People who have been in contact with a patient and have symptoms suggestive of measles (generally within 7 days, but possible up to 3 weeks later) are invited to contact their doctor. It is imperative that they call him beforehand to inform him of their condition and avoid contaminating other patients in the waiting room by spontaneously presenting themselves at the office.
In view of the evolution of the situation, the cantonal doctor’s service has issued a recommendation to wear a mask in emergencies, in medical offices and ambulances to prevent the spread of the virus. In fact, many people consult for flu symptoms at the start of the cold season. This recommendation is temporary and will be lifted as soon as the outbreak is definitively under control.
Measles epidemics occur regularly in Switzerland, the last outbreak in Geneva occurred in 2019.
The data of 2017-2019 show two-dose vaccination coverage at the age of two of 90% on average in Switzerland, but vaccination coverage against measles, mumps and rubella continues to increase; in two-year-old children, it reaches 95% for one dose and 94% for two doses (2021 data). A vaccination coverage rate of at least 95% with two doses is essential to eliminate the circulation of the measles virus.
Source: Department of Health and Mobility (DSM) of the canton of Geneva
1701376988
#Switzerland #outbreak #measles #affected #canton..