Measles is caused by the measles virus and leads to flu-like symptoms of the upper respiratory tract, high fever, severe feeling of illness and the typical measles rash. Occasionally the disease can cause inflammation in the brain, potentially resulting in irreversible damage. Measles is spread worldwide and is one of the most contagious diseases known to man; one person can infect up to 18 other people.
When and how often should I be vaccinated against measles?
In Switzerland, vaccination against measles is given during infancy at 9 and 12 months of age. If one has not yet received a vaccination and has not yet had measles disease, a vaccination against measles is strongly recommended even in adulthood. After receiving 2 vaccinations, one is protected for life.
Price: 37-96 CHF per dose plus consultation and injection fee
What else should I know about measles?
Measles is one of the diseases that could be eradicated if worldwide vaccination campaigns were executed successfully.
Because of its relatively low measles vaccination rate, Switzerland has long been considered a measles "exporter". This occurs when unvaccinated or insufficiently vaccination individuals travel from Switzerland abroad and bring/spread the disease with them. While vaccination coverage has recently improved, but is not yet where it should be.
For more information on measles, please visit the website of the FOPH.
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