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There has been a significant increase in cases of measles in northern Israel, according to the Health Ministry. Epidemiologists reported 96 cases of measles by the end of May 2012, this compares with only 4 cases in the same period in 2011, 14 in 2010, and 2 in 2009. Of the 63 cases this year 65% were reported in the north, while 20% were in Tel Aviv. Eight cases were identified in the centre of the country, four in Haifa, one in Jerusalem, and one in southern Israel.
In contrast to the previous country-wide outbreak, this current increase is concentrated in northern Israeli towns where vaccination rates stand at less than 90% among refugee communities in Tel Aviv, and especially among babies under the age of one year (the minimum vaccination age in Israel).
In light of the outbreak, the Health Ministry is now completing an immunization programme among populations that refused vaccination in the past, most of which are from small towns in the north. Family members of those suffering from measles are also eligible for vaccination.
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.
