Measles in Mexico

Abstract

Comparison of the figures for measles morbidity in Mexico over the years is difficult because of the different rates of reporting of cases. In the 1960s, ˜3% of the true number of cases of measles was reported, whereas in 1980 this percentage increased to ˜20%. A more representative time curve can be drawn for mortality, which dropped sharply in 1973-1980 as a result of the extensive use of measles vaccine. The relationship between measles and immunization is close, and morbidity for the above period is a mathematical function of the number of doses of vaccine distributed. During 1981, about four million doses of vaccine were administered, and in 1982 another four million children will be immunized, with a coverage of 70% of the susceptible population. It is hoped that in 1982 the incidence of measles will decrease to the low levels obtained in 1974-1975, although eradication in the near future seems unlikely. © 1983 by The University of Chicago. All rights reserved.