Determinants of low measles vaccination coverage in children living in an endemic area

Conclusion: We reported inadequate measles immunization rate in Southern Italy, with lowest rates in children ≤ 2 years or with underlying conditions. Only a minority had true contraindications to vaccine uptake. Implementation strategies addressed to health-care professionals and families should focus on the reported determinants to increase measles vaccination coverage.What is Known:• Measles is a viral, highly communicable disease, preventable by vaccine.• Measles elimination in Europe failed as demonstrated by outbreaks in several countries, due to low immunization rates.What is New:• Inadequate measles immunization rate due to false contraindications in Southern Italy, with lowest rates in children ≤ 2 years.• The presence of underlying disease is a risk factor for inadequate immunization.
Source: European Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research