- Confirmed instances of measles reported in Thuringia
For the first time in three years, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has documented measles incidents in Thuringia this year. By the end of August, six instances were identified, as reported by the Techniker Krankenkasse (TK), referencing RKI statistics. Guido Dressel, head of the TK's Thuringia branch, expressed concern, stating, "Even though six reported measles cases might not seem like much, it's noteworthy that the disease has resurfaced in Thuringia after half a decade."
Spread of illness throughout Thuringia
On a national scale, the RKI reported over six times the number of cases by the end of August compared to the same period last year, with a total of 503 cases (79). The cases in Thuringia were found in the districts of Altenburger Land, Gotha, Greiz, KyffhäUSERkreis, and Saale-Holzland-Kreis. Those affected ranged in age from one year to 24 years old. According to Thuringia's Ministry of Health, these are predominantly isolated occurrences scattered throughout the region, with no clusters.
Affecting just one toddler
Dressel also finds a glimmer of optimism in these figures: "It's rather unusual that only one toddler has been affected initially." This can likely be attributed to the measles protection law that took effect in 2020. "Since then, children in daycare centers must be vaccinated against measles," stated Dressel. Proof of measles immunity or vaccination has been mandatory since March 2020 for children and young people in community facilities, as well as for employees born after 1970.
Potential for brain inflammation
The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) advises measles vaccination for all children. Adults born after 1970 should also consider vaccination if their vaccination status is unclear. Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that initially manifests with symptoms such as a cold, cough, and fever. Distinctive symptoms include brownish-pink spots that appear on the skin following a few days. Affected individuals may also develop diarrhea, pneumonia, or middle ear infection. In extreme cases, it can cause brain inflammation. In extremely rare instances, measles can have grave consequences.
The Commission, being a part of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), released a statement expressing concern over the resurgence of measles in several European countries, including Thuringia. This is in light of the data presented by the RKI, which showed a significant increase in measles cases throughout Europe compared to previous years.
In response to the concern raised by The Commission, Guido Dressel, the head of the TK's Thuringia branch, emphasized the importance of adhering to the measles protection laws and vaccination regulations to minimize the spread of the disease in Thuringia.
