According to the most recent official statistics, there are now in excess of 40 confirmed instances of measles within the State. This information, provided by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, emerges amidst a Europe-wide surge of the infectious disease that’s also spreading to other regions. The Health Service Executive (HSE) advises that it can provoke significant complications, notably in children under a year old, pregnant individuals, and those with suppressed immune systems.
Presented data shows a total of 47 measles cases within the State as of 7 am on June 5th. Beyond these confirmed cases, an additional 18 are currently being examined. From the beginning of the year, seven outbreaks have been recorded, all occurring within private properties or amongst large families, with each outbreak confirming between two to five cases.
Among the confirmed instances, 21 are males and 24 are females, while two cases haven’t specified a gender. People between the ages of 25 to 34 comprise the most significant group of cases at 10, followed closely by those aged 15 to 19, and then those aged 10 to 14.
This information follows a recent public health alert revealing that individuals aboard a flight from London to Dublin might have been exposed to measles. The HSE alerted passengers and crew on board the Ryanair FR123 flight from Gatwick to Dublin at 8.10 pm on Thursday, May 6th that they may have been exposed to the contagious malady.
A statement issued by the HSE requested that passengers and crew remain especially watchful for measles symptoms for 21 days post-exposure until June 7th. The HSE has earlier this year initiated a catch-up program for the measles MMR vaccine countrywide, aiming to curb the growing case numbers. The initiative is intended to ensure that the MMR vaccine is given to people who could have missed it in the past, including children, young adults, and healthcare staff.
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control states that the surge in cases originates from diminished disease levels during the COVID-19 pandemic combined with an underwhelming vaccine uptake.
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