title: An outbreak of measles, Koro Island, 1997.
abstract: An outbreak of Measles in Koro Island occurred during the spring of 1997 of which 245 suspected Cases of Measles were identified. Measles was most virulent among pre-adolescent and adolescent age groups that resulted in absenteeism during the epidemic. Crowded housing and transport encouraged spread of the virus. Measles IgM was confirmed in 88% of specimens tested. The Outbreak is attributed to primary vaccine failure and accumulation of susceptible cases caused by frequent breaks in the cold chain and subsequent reduction in population immunity to Measles. A recommended two-dose Measles Immunisation schedule will achieve and sustain a high population of immunity to Measles. Also essential is strengthening Laboratory & Epidemiological Surveillance, maintaining a high Immunisation coverage and integrity of a cold chain system to achieve the WHO target OF Measles Elimination by 2005.
authors.affiliation: Ministry of Health, Suva Fiji Islands.
authors.forename: Eric
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Rafai
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D005260:Female; D005367:Fiji / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008457:Measles / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000276:immunology / Q000635:transmission; D011159:Population Surveillance