Measles continues to blight Europe and has been responsible for 35 deaths in the last year, the World Health Organisation has reported.
In Italy alone there have been more than 3,300 measles cases and two deaths since this time last year. Romania has experienced the majority of recent deaths – 31 in the last year.
Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, says: "Every death or disability caused by this vaccine-preventable disease is an unacceptable tragedy. We are very concerned that although a safe, effective and affordable vaccine is available, measles remains a leading cause of death among children worldwide, and unfortunately Europe is not spared."
She added that the WHO’s priority in all European affected countries is to control the outbreaks and maintain high vaccination coverage for all sections of the population.
Remaining pockets of low immunisation coverage due to lack of access, underlying health conditions making vaccination too dangerous, or individuals choosing not to vaccinate, increases the spread of the virus.
School-entry checks are being used in some countries, to increase coverage rates for routine vaccinations. Campaigns are also being used to ensure adults are fully protected.
A consultation was held in June at which a range of experts decided on further strategies to improve vaccination rates among adolescents, adults, vulnerable population groups and health care workers.
These include strengthening disease surveillance and communication practices, among other measures.
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