It was reported today that an adult in the Netherlands has died from measles this week. The deceased patient had a severe immune disorder, leading to insufficient protection against this infectious disease.
The patient was admitted to hospital with measles 2 weeks ago. Even after the Municipal Health Services (GGDs) conducted source tracing, where the person contracted measles is still unknown.
Measles can be dangerous for people with impaired immunity
Some people have impaired immunity, for example if they have a congenital immune disorder or are receiving a medical treatment that significantly suppresses the immune system. A previous vaccination may be much less effective in these immunocompromised people. As a result, they may become seriously ill if they are exposed to the measles virus. “This tragic incident underlines the importance of high vaccination coverage,” stated the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM). “High coverage means that the virus does not have a chance to infect people. It also shows that measles is not exclusively a childhood illness; it can also have serious consequences for vulnerable adults.”
Importance of vaccinations
Since the MMR vaccine was introduced, there has been a sharp decline in patients with measles in the Netherlands. Vaccination coverage has shown a clear downward trend over the past 10 years, making it easier for the disease to spread again. The virus has mainly been spreading among people who are not vaccinated and have not had measles before. High vaccination coverage is important to protect everyone in the Netherlands, including vulnerable groups who cannot be vaccinated themselves – such as people with severely impaired immunity or young babies.
What are the symptoms of measles?
Measles often starts with fever, tiredness, a runny nose and a dry cough. These first symptoms may also include red, inflamed eyes and white spots on the inside of the cheeks. Several days later, the patient develops a red spotty rash that usually starts on the face and then spreads to the torso and the rest of the body. Most people recover on their own, but measles can also lead to serious illness, such as pneumonia or encephalitis, which can sometimes become life-threatening.
What to do if you have measles?
If you have symptoms of measles, RIVM advises calling the GP – and not visiting the GP practice. Your doctor may recommend laboratory testing. Measles is highly contagious, so it is vitally important to prevent the disease from spreading.