Ukraine Measles Outbreak Connected To Growing U.S., European Outbreaks; Germany To Consider Mandatory Measles Vaccinations

CIDRAP News: Measles outbreaks continue to grow in U.S., Europe
“A large measles outbreak in Ukraine has infected more than 25,000 people and is connected to growing outbreaks in Europe and the record-setting one in the United States. Both the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) released new measles updates [Monday]…” (Soucheray, 5/6).

New York Times: Germany Considers Fines for Not Vaccinating Children Against Measles
“Germany’s health minister has proposed a fine of up to 2,500 euros, or about $2,800, for parents who refuse to immunize their school-age children against measles, part of efforts to combat a disease that has surged after decades of decline. The fine is part of a draft bill that the minister, Jens Spahn, submitted to Chancellor Angela Merkel’s government for debate this week, but the proposal has prompted a wider discussion about whether mandating vaccinations is an infringement on personal freedom…” (Eddy, 5/7).

Additional coverage of measles in Europe is available from CNN, Deutsche Welle, The Guardian, Reuters, and TIME.

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