Rise in measles cases in France: vaccination is the only protection

Measles is currently affecting several regions in France, and the rapid increase in the number of cases since the beginning of the year raises concerns about a new major outbreak across the country. In light of this, Santé publique France has issued an update and reminds the public that vaccination is the only way to protect against measles.

Published on 14 March 2018

After declining between 2012 and 2016, the number of measles cases has been rising sharply since November 2017. This situation is the result of insufficient vaccination coverage among infants (79% with two doses of the vaccine instead of the required 95%), children, and young adults. The sharp increase in the number of cases since November 2017 in Nouvelle-Aquitaine has continued into 2018, with several outbreaks occurring in this region as well as in other French regions.

Epidemiological situation in France as of March 14, 2018

Measles resurgence since November 2017
As of March 12, 2018, 913 cases reported since November 6, 2017
59 departments affected by measles
50% of cases are reported in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region
Highest incidence among children under 1 year of age
Death in February of a 32-year-old unvaccinated woman
21 deaths due to measles since 2008
Nearly 9 out of 10 measles cases occurred in people who were unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated

Number of reported measles cases, by department of residence (Nov. 6, 2017, to March 12, 2018)

Learn more: Measles Epidemiological Bulletin. Surveillance data as of March 14, 2018.

A person with measles can infect 15 to 20 people

Measles is a highly contagious and potentially serious viral infection for which there is no cure. It is a disease that affects not only young children but also adolescents and young adults. Measles is caused by a respiratory virus that spreads through the projection of saliva or respiratory droplets, particularly when coughing or sneezing. Measles cases are contagious starting about four days before the rash appears and remain so for up to about four days after the rash begins.

Vaccination is the only way to protect against measles

Santé publique France emphasizes the need for very high vaccination coverage in the population (at least 95% with two doses of vaccine among children and young adults). Such herd immunity would help eliminate the disease and its complications, thereby also protecting the most vulnerable individuals who cannot be vaccinated themselves (infants under one year of age, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals). It is therefore imperative that all individuals born in or after 1980 have received two doses of the vaccine.

As of January 1, 2018, measles vaccination is mandatory for infants, who must receive one dose of the combined Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine at 12 months of age and a second dose between 16 and 18 months.

The more people who are vaccinated, the lower the risk of an epidemic