Italian Doctor Calls for Official Measles Eradication Campaign
In a recent interview with beraking latest news Salute, Claudio Cricelli, president emeritus of the Italian Society of General Medicine and Primary Care, expressed concerns about the growing number of measles infections in Italy. Cricelli emphasized the importance of vaccinating older generations who are not immune to the disease, as well as implementing a targeted public health campaign to achieve measles eradication.
Cricelli noted that there is a segment of the adult population in Italy who are not vaccinated against measles, which leads to periodic outbreaks of the disease. He stressed that sporadic actions and individual family doctors advising their patients are not enough to address the issue effectively. What is needed, according to Cricelli, is an official campaign that educates healthcare providers and citizens on the necessary steps to eradicate measles.
The doctor highlighted the importance of collecting serological data, planning mass vaccinations for unvaccinated individuals, and making precise investments in health policies to combat the spread of measles. He pointed out that while younger generations who have been vaccinated are protected, unvaccinated adults are still at risk of infection.
Cricelli also discussed the three groups at risk of measles infection: vaccinated young people and children, unvaccinated individuals who have not had the disease and are not immune, and unvaccinated individuals who have had measles and are assumed to have persistent immunity. He emphasized that until the entire population is fully vaccinated, there will continue to be cases of measles in Italy.
In conclusion, Cricelli called for a comprehensive approach to measles eradication, including targeted vaccination campaigns and public health initiatives. It is crucial for healthcare providers, policymakers, and the public to work together to protect the population from this preventable disease.