Measles Surge in Taiwan: Public Health Officials Issue Expanded Vaccination Guidelines

Increased Measles Cases Prompt Updated Recommendations for Travel and High-Risk Groups

TAIPEI, Taiwan – Taiwan is currently experiencing a rise in measles cases, reaching a six-year high with 36 reported cases so far this year, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Of the cases, 24 were classified as imported, with all linked to travel from Vietnam. The CDC has expanded its vaccine recommendation, now encompassing individuals born in or after 1966, broadening the scope from the previous cutoff of 1981.

The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highlighted as the most effective preventative measure by medical professionals, including those at Chung Shan Medical University Hospital.

The remaining 12 cases represent local transmission, all linked to previously identified clusters. These clusters have completed their monitoring periods without additional infections.

Recent cases involve men in their 30s who reside in northern and central Taiwan and had recently returned from Vietnam. These cases were classified as imported, as symptoms appeared four and nine days after their return, respectively.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness transmitted through airborne particles, respiratory droplets, or direct contact with nasal and throat secretions. The incubation period typically lasts 10 to 12 days, with the virus being transmissible from four days before to four days after the characteristic rash appears.

The most recent patients are currently under home isolation. Contact tracing efforts have identified 128 close contacts in the northern case, who will be monitored through June 4, and 165 contacts in the central case, monitored through June 6.

Updated guidelines advise adults born in or after 1966 who plan to travel to areas with ongoing measles outbreaks or who frequently interact with foreign nationals to consult a physician about self-paid MMR vaccination. This is particularly recommended for those unsure of their immunity status. Vaccination should ideally occur at least two weeks before international travel to allow adequate time for immunity to develop.

Currently, two brands of self-paid MMR vaccines are available in Taiwan, with approximately 21,000 doses available. An additional 10,000 doses are undergoing inspection and are expected to be released soon.

The CDC has indicated a stable vaccine supply. Individuals aged 20 to 59 who plan to travel to Vietnam are strongly encouraged to seek medical evaluation and consider MMR vaccination before departure.

Taiwan implemented routine MMR vaccination in 1981. While the vaccine offers over 95% protection for up to 20 years, immunity can diminish over time, especially in adults in their 20s to 40s who were vaccinated in childhood but haven't received booster shots.

A nationwide immunity survey conducted from 2019 to 2020 revealed a seropositivity rate of 97% among those born between 1961 and 1965. However, immunity rates among younger populations showed a significant decline, ranging from 93% to 42%.

Common measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and a red rash. Most individuals recover within 18 days with appropriate care.