Big measles outbreak in Berlin

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MunichMeasles has been rampant in Berlin since the beginning of the year. With around 400 sick people now, it is one of the largest outbreaks since the Infection Protection Act was introduced in 2001. The first cases occurred among asylum seekers from Serbia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

In the meantime, however, the measles wave has spread to the rest of the capital's population, reports the Robert Koch Institute in its weekly bulletins. This shows how large the vaccine gaps are in Germany despite all warnings from the infection specialists.

Eradication failed for the time being

Germany had actually committed to the World Health Organization (WHO) to eradicate measles by the end of 2015. A vaccination rate of 95 percent for both required measles vaccinations is aimed for. If the population is vaccinated in this way, an imported measles virus cannot spread any further. But the hope of actually still being able to achieve this goal has been dashed in the face of the current measles outbreak.

Underrated disease

The danger posed by measles is often underestimated. Measles is not a harmless childhood disease, but a highly contagious, serious infection that can be associated with life-threatening pneumonia and brain infections, among other things. The pathogens can also affect the middle ear, which can cause permanent hearing loss.

Because of the incomplete vaccination protection in Germany, just as many adults as children fall ill with measles. However, serious complications are more common in adults.

The disease is triggered by viruses. In addition to the typical red patches of skin, fever and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract occur. Measles are highly contagious. Along with chickenpox, they are one of the most easily transmitted diseases. (cf)

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