Masters alarm in Austria: record numbers and vaccination appeal of the experts!

Masters alarm in Austria: record numbers and vaccination appeal of the experts!

Österreich - An alarming increase in measles cases was recorded in Austria in 2024, so most infections have been registered for 20 years. With a total of 506 confirmed cases, including 107 hospital stays and four in the intensive care unit, the average age of those affected has increased to 14 years. It is worrying that more than 20% of the infected people were over 30 years old. Virologist Lukas Weseslindtner from the MedUni Vienna explains that this increase is primarily due to an ongoing population of approx. 12% in the population. Many adults and parents consciously choose the measles vaccination for their children, which can have fatal consequences, because a measles-infected can infect up to 12 more people if they come in close proximity, like today reported.

The problem is reinforced by immigration and travel activity, since measles viruses can be imported by other regions. According to Weseslindtner, 20 different genotypes of these viruses have been circulating in Austria since the beginning of 2024. The measles vaccination, in use since 1974, is considered safe and the only protection against the highly contagious virus disease. Weseslindtner strongly recommends checking his own vaccination status. The Ministry of Health offers two simple options: either you can have it tested for existing antibodies in the laboratory or simply make a refresher vaccination, since over vaccinations are not possible, which is also possible by rki.de is confirmed.

vaccination protection is indispensable

The MMR vaccination that protects against measles, mumps and rubella is indispensable. Although most vaccinated people experience mild, temporary reactions, serious side effects are rare. Important information on MMR vaccination includes possible vaccination reactions such as redness or fever, which are mostly unfounded. The risk of serious reactions is significantly below the risk of infection with the viruses themselves. Therefore, it is crucial to immunize yourself and your family, especially in view of the increasing measles numbers and current health challenges in Austria.