Measles in Germany (Berlin) (Update)

06 Apr 2015

The outbreak of measles in Berlin is ongoing and showing no signs of slowing. The outbreak began in October 2014, and as of 4 April 2015, a total of 970 cases have been reported. Around 75% of cases have required hospital admission due to the severity of the illness.

The high number of cases is being blamed on low vaccine coverage in the capital and the health authorities are encouraging parents to have their children immunised.

Advice for Travellers

It should be confirmed that children have received their recommended doses of MMR at 12-15 months of age and again pre-school around 3 years 6 months, while unimmunised adults who have not had the disease themselves may consider vaccination if thought to be at risk. Two doses of MMR vaccine are required to give adequate protection.