A single-center evaluation of pediatric measles cases in Istanbul, Türkiye, in 2019

Abstract

Although measles can be prevented and eliminated by vaccination, it is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to serious complications, disability, and death. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the characteristics of measles cases in a single center. All children with clinically suspected measles who attended the Pediatric Clinic at Esenler Maternity and Child Health Hospital in Istanbul, Türkiye, between January 1 and June 30, 2019 were included in the analysis. None of the children with measles were fully vaccinated. The incidence and duration of conjunctivitis were significantly higher in the unvaccinated group than in the partially vaccinated group (P = 0.027 and P = 0.019, respectively). Unvaccinated patients had a significantly lower median leukocyte count (P = 0.019) and significantly higher median C-reactive protein level (P = 0.021). The vitamin A level and leukocyte count were moderately positively correlated (r = 0.698; P = 0.008). Children should be fully vaccinated in order to prevent measles.