2024-04-09 06:45:31
A worrying increase in post-COVID-19 cases.
Since 2022, and even more so throughout 2023, Europe and the world have witnessed an increase in measles outbreaks. This trend is attributable to a weakening of vaccination coverage observed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern regarding this accelerated spread, with an increase of more than 79% in cases recorded in 2023 compared to the previous year. France, for its part, saw measles cases increase eightfold in 2023 compared to 2022, revealing the existence of segments of the population particularly vulnerable to the virus.
The need for rapid diagnosis and reporting.
In this alarming context, early detection of measles and mandatory reporting of cases are of paramount importance. Public Health France highlights the increase in delays in reporting suspected cases since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the high contagiousness of measles, it is imperative that health professionals immediately communicate suspected cases to health authorities. This process is essential for the development of targeted and effective prevention strategies.
Vaccination: cornerstone of prevention.
The measles vaccination strategy is based on high vaccination coverage, particularly among infants thanks to compulsory vaccination introduced in 2018. However, despite vaccination coverage approaching the objective of eliminating the disease, efforts remain to be made. , particularly among young adults. Vaccination proves to be the only effective preventive measure once morest measles, in the absence of treatment. It is essential not only to protect vaccinated individuals but also to protect people at risk of serious complications.
Reinforced surveillance in the face of import risk.
The upcoming arrival of millions of international visitors for the Olympic and Paralympic Games increases the risk of importing the virus. This context requires increased vigilance and appropriate prevention measures from health professionals. France, in coordination with global initiatives to combat measles, is working to strengthen its epidemiological surveillance systems to protect its population and its international guests once morest this highly contagious disease.
Measles assessment in France for the year 2023
The year 2023 marked a significant evolution in the epidemiological situation of measles in France, with a total of 117 cases recorded, including 31 imported cases. Although this figure represents an eight-fold increase compared to 2022, it remains lower than pre-pandemic figures. This increase in cases affected 16 metropolitan departments, with no impact overseas, reflecting a heterogeneous geographical distribution of the disease on the national territory.
A change in the age distribution
The year 2023 saw a shift in the distribution of measles cases towards older age groups, with a median age of 12 years. This phenomenon is particularly linked to an epidemic outbreak within a college, illustrating an unusual trend compared to previous years. The highest incidence rate was observed among young adolescents, a sign of particular alert in this age category.
Hospitalizations and complications: a contrasting assessment
Among the reported cases, 27 required hospitalization, including two in intensive care. Complications, mainly in the form of pneumonia, affected half of adults over 30 years old, without resulting in death. The vaccination status of eligible cases reveals that 44% were not vaccinated, while 46% were with two doses. Notably, only one hospitalization was reported among fully vaccinated individuals, highlighting the effectiveness of vaccination.
Imported cases: a notable vector of transmission
The year 2023 was also marked by a significant increase in imported cases, multiplied by six compared to 2022. These cases, coming from various continents, were at the origin of several epidemic outbreaks in the territory, highlighting the persistence of international circulation of the virus. The majority of imported cases were not vaccinated, increasing the risk of transmission within the French population.
Revealing epidemic outbreaks
The seven epidemic outbreaks identified in 2023, including four linked to imported cases, affected various environments, including the school, family and hospital sectors. The largest outbreak, in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, mainly involved middle school students vaccinated, often early. This situation suggests consideration of optimizing the vaccination schedule to strengthen the protection of adolescents.
A call for vigilance and vaccination.
The measles assessment in France for the year 2023 highlights the need for increased vigilance, particularly in the face of imported cases and in the surveillance of populations at risk. It also highlights the crucial importance of vaccination as the most effective means of prevention. In a context of international mobility and various epidemic outbreaks, adherence to vaccination recommendations appears to be a priority to limit the spread of measles and protect vulnerable populations.
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