Measles is especially dangerous for young children. Resistance deteriorates and in severe cases children can develop pneumonia. In the long term, measles infection can lead to SSPE, a fatal form of encephalitis. “We also see problems with other infectious diseases that can be prevented by vaccination. We can protect our children against them,” said Dijkstra.
Increase vaccination rates
The OMT wants measles vaccination to become more accessible in order to increase vaccination rates. It has fallen in recent years, making it easier for measles to spread. The minister then asked the RIVM to investigate whether additional vaccinations can be distributed within the current stock, or whether more vaccinations can be purchased.
Bring forward the second injection
The government also wants children to receive the second injection against mumps, measles and rubella (MMR) earlier. The age should be brought forward from 9 to 3 years. Children receive the first injection when they are fourteen months old.
The OMT further advises that brothers and sisters of children with measles should not go to daycare until the end of the incubation period. Groups within a daycare center should also be separated as much as possible in the event of a measles infection. The minister will inform healthcare institutions of these recommendations.
Number of measles infections
At least 64 infections have been diagnosed in the Netherlands in recent weeks. Most cases have been found in Eindhoven and the surrounding area among migrant workers from Eastern Europe.
By: ANP
Tags: child vaccinated measles
