A sigh of relief in Nicosia as a toddler with measles is now ‘out of danger’ and stable at Makarios hospital. Concerns over low vaccination rates in Cyprus linger, posing a risk to individual and community health amidst the recent spike in measles cases across Europe.
Why is the measles vaccination rate a concern in Cyprus?
The measles vaccination rate in Cyprus is a concern because it’s around 80%, below the 95% threshold needed to ensure herd immunity. The low rate is due to a mix of vaccination neglect during the Covid-19 pandemic and the spread of misinformation, which poses a risk to individual and community health.
A Sigh of Relief in Nicosia
A three-year-old child who contracted measles is now “out of danger” and in stable condition, receiving care at the Makarios hospital in Nicosia. Paediatric department director Avraam Ilias, in a conversation with reporters, expressed his relief while acknowledging the concern caused by the recent cases. Despite the scare, the prognosis is looking up for the little one.
The European region has seen a disturbing trend with a spike in measles cases since June 2023. According to health experts, this increase is attributed to two primary reasons. A significant portion of the population remains unvaccinated, with some parents neglecting vaccinations amidst the chaos of the Covid-19 pandemic. Others refuse vaccinations based on misguided beliefs or misinformation.
Vaccination: A Shield Against Measles
Ilias noted that both Cypriot children who contracted measles had not been vaccinated. In Cyprus, the vaccination rate hovers around 80 per cent, below the desired threshold. To ensure herd immunity and protect the population, health officials aim for a 95 per cent vaccination rate. A vaccination gap poses a risk not just to individuals but to the community at large.
The history of the measles vaccine is not without controversy. In 1999, a UK study falsely linked the MMR vaccine to autism, causing a significant decline in vaccination rates. Although the study was retracted, and the responsible gastroenterologist lost his medical license, the effects lingered. This has parallels with the skepticism surrounding Covid-19 vaccines, albeit the measles vaccine is both effective and safe.
Continuing the Fight for Immunization
Elisavet Constantinou, a medical services director, weighed in, recommending the first measles vaccine dose at 12 months old and a follow-up at four years old. She reassured the public that while the situation in Cyprus is not alarming, vigilance is key. Healthcare professionals are monitoring epidemiological data from Cyprus and Europe closely to stay ahead of any potential outbreaks.
The island’s health authorities are combatting the spread of misinformation about vaccines. By educating the public on the benefits and safety of immunization against measles, they hope to increase the vaccination rate. Public health campaigns emphasize the critical role vaccines play in preventing diseases and safeguarding communities.
Why is the measles vaccination rate a concern in Cyprus?
The measles vaccination rate in Cyprus is a concern because it’s around 80%, below the 95% threshold needed to ensure herd immunity. The low rate is due to a mix of vaccination neglect during the Covid-19 pandemic and the spread of misinformation, which poses a risk to individual and community health.
What recent news highlights the importance of measles vaccination in Cyprus?
A recent case of a toddler with measles being ‘out of danger’ and stable at Makarios hospital in Nicosia highlights the importance of measles vaccination in Cyprus. The child had not been vaccinated, and concerns over low vaccination rates persist in the country amidst a recent spike in measles cases across Europe.
What are the recommended vaccination doses for measles in Cyprus?
According to medical services director Elisavet Constantinou, the recommended vaccination schedule for measles in Cyprus includes the first dose at 12 months old and a follow-up dose at four years old. Ensuring children receive both doses is crucial for protection against measles and maintaining community immunity.
How are health authorities in Cyprus addressing the issue of low vaccination rates?
Health authorities in Cyprus are combatting the spread of misinformation about vaccines by educating the public on the benefits and safety of immunization against measles. Public health campaigns emphasize the critical role vaccines play in preventing diseases and safeguarding communities, aiming to increase the vaccination rate and protect public health.
