The Investigation of First Indigenous Measles Case of A Foreigner in Taipei, 2016

The Investigation of First Indigenous Measles Case of A Foreigner in Taipei, 2016

On June 15, 2016, Taipei Regional Center, Centers for Disease Control was notified by a hospital in Taipei of a suspect measles case of a 29-year-old female caretaker from Indonesia. According to laboratory tests and clinical symptoms, she was considered as an indigenous measles case. Although this case was reported after the infectious period, health authority still implemented preventive measures, monitored and followed up 61 contacts. Indigenous measles cases are rarely reported in Taiwan recently. If a patient presents atypical or non-significant clinical symptoms, diagnosis would be difficult, resulting in delayed reporting. We suggest that health care providers should strengthen the knowledge on measles infection, and we encourage the medical institutions to report suspect cases. Identifying the sources of infection of indigenous measles cases is not easily achievable. We suggest setting the tracing rule of the contact in infectious period, to monitor the disease and evaluate the need for administering MMR vaccine in particular areas. In addition, approved foreign medical institutes should follow the regulation of Governing Management of the Health Examination of Employed Aliens, using the certified health examination form. We also suggest building the system for re-examination by health authority, and strengthen border quarantine.