Consequences of incomplete measles vaccine uptake in healthcare workers during an outbreak in North East England

J Hosp Infect. 2014 Feb;86(2):144-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jhin.2013.12.002. Epub 2013 Dec 20.

Abstract

Two cases of measles-infected healthcare workers are described, plus the case of a third who was excluded from work for an extended period of time due to non-immunity, during an outbreak in North East England. There is clearly a need for further effort to ensure that healthcare workers are protected against measles. Vaccine uptake may be increased by establishing a one-off measles immunization programme in conjunction with systematic pre-employment screening. Such programmes could be strengthened through incentivized or mandatory vaccination. Staff and policymakers at all levels should work together to prevent hospital-acquired measles infection.

Keywords: Healthcare workers; Immunization; Measles.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Disease Outbreaks*
  • England / epidemiology
  • Female
  • Health Personnel*
  • Humans
  • Immunization Programs
  • Measles / epidemiology*
  • Measles / prevention & control*
  • Measles Vaccine / administration & dosage*
  • Measles Vaccine / immunology*
  • Vaccination / statistics & numerical data*

Substances

  • Measles Vaccine