Measles in a highly vaccinated society: the 2007-08 outbreak in Israel

Abstract

Background: Despite success in controlling measles through a national immunization program, Israel recently experienced its largest measles outbreak since 1994.

Methods: Using data reported by health district offices to the Ministry of Health, an epidemiological analysis of the 2007-08 measles outbreak was performed.

Results: 1467 measles cases were reported in Israel, primarily among ultra-orthodox Jewish communities in the Jerusalem Health District and to a lesser extent in other areas. The highest age-specific incidence rate (122.5 per 100,000) occurred among infants. 38.6% of all measles patients were under the age of five, and 53.4% were under the age of ten. 186 patients (12.7%) were hospitalized; there were no fatalities. Only 4.6% of measles patients had been fully vaccinated for their age.

Conclusion: To minimize the risk of future outbreaks in Israel, successful marketing of the MMR vaccine to under-vaccinated sub-groups is essential.