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Cases of measles and mumps have significantly increased in the Republic of Moldova. ANSP recommendations

In the first ten months of this year, 49 cases of mumps were reported, primarily among children aged 0 to 17. Measles cases have also risen alarmingly, with 210 confirmed cases in 2024 compared to only three registered last year.

According to data from the National Public Health Agency (ANSP), communicated to the "Teleradio-Moldova" Company, only five cases of measles were reported in November. The majority of cases occurred between April and June in a Refugee Placement Center, and from August to October in religious communities, predominantly among unvaccinated individuals from large families holding strict anti-vaccination beliefs.

"The ages of those affected by measles in 2024 range from four months to 55 years, with the highest impact on children aged 1 to 19. Of the total 210 cases of measles, 85% involved completely unvaccinated patients, 3.8% had unknown vaccination status, and 6.2% were incompletely vaccinated," said Laura Țurcan, epidemiologist at ANSP.

The most effective measure to prevent these diseases is the combined trivalent MMR vaccine (which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella), administered in three doses according to the vaccination calendar: at 12 months, at seven years, and at 15 years.

In this context, the National Public Health Agency urges the population to be aware that measles and mumps are extremely contagious viral infections that can lead to serious complications.

"Vaccination remains the most effective method of preventing measles and mumps. We urge parents to vaccinate their children, considering the epidemiological situation at both national and regional levels. Parents should consult their family doctor to create an individual vaccination schedule if their children have not received the vaccine at the appropriate ages," health officials recommend.

We remind you that in the Republic of Moldova, vaccination is provided free of charge, in three doses, at 12 months, seven years old, and 15 years old.

According to ANSP statistics, vaccination coverage with the MMR vaccine at 12 months was 85% in 2023, at seven years (MMR2) it was 92.7%, and at 15 years (MMR3) it was 92.3%.

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