The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a warning regarding the looming threat of a measles outbreak in Ireland. According to the latest report from the Health Protection Surveillance Center (HPSC), vaccination rates across the country are significantly below the required level to prevent the spread of the disease effectively.
Counties Louth and Meath have particularly low uptake rates for the measles vaccine, with less than 80 percent of the population vaccinated. In Sligo, Leitrim, and Donegal, the rate stands at 85 percent. However, the national goal set by the health department is for 95 percent of the population to receive the preventive vaccine.
The Department of Health’s findings reveal that 10 percent of Ireland’s 18-34-year-olds are not immune to measles, mumps, and rubella, raising concerns about the potential for an outbreak similar to those experienced in the UK.
Recent incidents, such as a passenger on an Etihad Airways flight from Abu Dhabi to Dublin being diagnosed with measles, have prompted health officials to advise monitoring for symptoms among other passengers. Additionally, a measles-related death has already been reported in Ireland this year.
Pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems are urged to contact the health department immediately if they suspect exposure to the virus. The importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles, mumps, and rubella cannot be overstated, as these diseases pose serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations.