6 FAQs about the measles vaccination campaign
1- What is measles?
Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that causes a red spotty rash (exanthem), fever and respiratory symptoms. Measles significantly weakens the immune system, which can lead to otitis, pneumonia, fits and encephalitis. In some cases it can be fatal.
Measles is an airborne disease that spreads through coughs, sneezes and direct contact with the saliva of those infected. It is a highly contagious disease.
2- How can measles be prevented?
The disease can be prevented through vaccination. In Chile the measles vaccine is part of the compulsory vaccination schedule. Children are vaccinated at 12 months and in the first year of elementary school (age 5). Chile has operated a measles vaccination campaign since 1992 to strengthen children’s immunity.
3- Who will be vaccinated and where?
All children aged between 1 and 5 years old will be vaccinated. Vaccines will be administered at child-care nurseries, pre-schools, elementary schools family health centers and private clinics, throughout the country. Vaccines will also be administered at other places with large numbers of children in line with their individual programs.
4- Which vaccine is used?
The MMR vaccine is used in Chile to protect against three diseases: measles, mumps and rubella. This vaccine has been used since the 1960s and is proven to be highly safe and effective.
The vaccine does NOT contain thimerosal. Thimerosal is used as a preservative in vaccines and international scientific authorities have repeatedly confirmed that it is not harmful.
5- Is the vaccine free?
Yes. Like all of the vaccines in the National Vaccination Schedule, the measles vaccine is free for all children irrespective of their health insurance provider (Fonasa, Isapre, Armed Forces or Police).
6- Is it compulsory?
Yes. The Health Ministry’s Decree N° 1201 of November 22, 2013 established a compulsory vaccination schedule for all Chilean residents, which includes measles.
Further information
Why have there been measles cases in Chile?
The recent measles outbreak was spread by an infected person arriving from another country. Although the outbreak was controlled, it shows that the disease still poses a threat and we must increase immunity among the population, particularly children, who can suffer serious complications as a result of the virus.
What is “herd immunity”?
If around 100% of the population is immunized, the number of people who are susceptible to a disease decreases and therefore the probability of infection reduces. This is known as herd immunity. It means that anyone who has not been vaccinated or has not completed the course of vaccinations is less likely to be infected. The measles vaccine is compulsory to protect not only the individual child, but the entire population.