ecomes infected with measles. It is one of the most important causes of childhood mortality worldwide, causing about 240,000 deaths globally each year.
The first sign of measles is usually a high fever, which begins about 10-12 days after exposure to the virus, and lasts 4-7 days. A runny nose, a cough, red and watery eyes, and small white spots inside the cheeks can develop in the initial stage. After several days, a rash erupts. On average, the rash occurs 14 days after exposure to the virus.
There is no specific treatment for measles and most people recover within 2–3 weeks. However, particularly in malnourished children and people with reduced immunity, measles can cause serious complications.
The European Immunisation Week (EIW) is led and coordinated by WHO/Europe and implemented by member states. The fifth EIW will takes place April 24-May 1.
It is the second time that Switzerland is participating. It has an information campaign, including a brochure and a special website (see links). Many cantons and health organisations have signed up.
More than a decade ago, member states adopted a regional goal of eliminating measles and rubella by 2010 in Europe. Most countries have implemented successful strategies, which have resulted in historically low levels of measles incidence, with less than 10 cases per million population in 2007–2009 and the virtual elimination of measles in a number of countries.
But momentum on this important target has stalled, the WHO says. Measles has made a comeback in some western European countries, owing to children not being immunised either on time or at all. In North and South America measles has already been eliminated.