Irish health authorities are “closely monitoring” measles as the number of infections rises significantly across Europe.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said measles vaccination rates in Ireland were below targets set by the World Health Organization, raising concerns about shortages as the disease continues to spread.
On Tuesday, the WHO issued an official measles warning after showing a staggering 4,500% increase in infections in Europe.
EU member states reported 42,200 cases last year, almost 45 times the 941 confirmed cases in 2022.
Britain has also seen a surge in vaccinations at the same time as vaccination rates have fallen, raising concerns, particularly in parts of London and the West Midlands.
This afternoon Mr Donnelly told reporters: “We are monitoring the measles situation very closely, particularly in light of the outbreak we have seen in the UK.”
Ministers received a “detailed update” from the chief medical officer on measles in the context of the UK situation.
“I just spoke with state legislatures about this yesterday and will probably submit a memo to governments on this within the next two weeks.”
The memo will be submitted to the Council of Ministers and will concern the epidemiological situation and the rollout of the MMR vaccine to protect against measles, mumps and rubella.
The current vaccine coverage rate is around 87%, falling short of the 95% target set by the WHO.
“We need to meet the WHO targets,” Donnelly said.
“A significant amount of work has now begun between the department and the HSE in terms of engaging with parents, informing them of the importance and increasing fees,” he said, adding: “We will be monitoring this closely. There is,” he added. ”
Additional reporting by the Press Association
