Identifying immunity gaps for measles using Belgian serial serology data

• DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.05.009
• Publication Date: 2022-05-16T12:04:37Z
• Authors: Julie Schenk; Steven Abrams; Amber Litzroth; Laura Cornelissen; Tine Grammens; Heidi Theeten; Niel Hens
• Keywords: Seroprevalence; Herd Immunity; MMR vaccine

Vaccine-preventable diseases, such as measles, have been re-emerging in countries with moderate to high vaccine uptake. It is increasingly important identify and close immunity gaps increase coverage of routine childhood vaccinations, including two doses the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR). Here, we present a simple cohort model relying on Bayesian approach evaluate evolution measles seroprevalence Belgium using three most recent cross-sectional serological survey data collections (2002, 2006 2013) information regarding properties. We find profiles be similar for different regions Belgium. These exhibit drop birth cohorts that were offered vaccination at suboptimal coverages first years after has started up. This gap observed across all years, although it more pronounced year 2013. At present, COVID-19 pandemic could negatively impact immunization worldwide, thereby increasing need additional programs groups children are impacted by this. Therefore, now even existing sustain reach vaccine-derived goals.