EUROPE/ITALY - Even in rich countries children’s sicknesses are a worry. “Measles, Mumps and German Measles are no joke”. Italian health ministry launches anti-measles campaign. In 2002-2003 there were 28,000 cases of measles reported and 8 were mortal.

Rome (Fides Service) - “Measles, Mumps and German Measles are no joke” with the slogan the Italian health ministry launched an anti-measles campaign urging calls families to prevent this disease often underestimated and with serious consequences. Today the ministry underlines thanks to a safe and effective vaccination it is possible to prevent all three sicknesses and the inoculation is free.
The Higher Health Institute recorded an increase in cases of measles last year (2002-2003) with a peak number of 28,000 , 8 of them mortal. This underlines the importance of the commitment taken by Italy with the World Health Organisation to prevent this disease in three years time. The campaign also aims to reduce congenital German Measles to lower the rate of one case every 100,000 children born alive by 2007.
For measles the campaign aims to promote vaccination for some 7 million children aged 3 to 14 years who have not been vaccinated and are the cause of the spreading epidemic.
The information campaign includes TV and newspaper advertising to inform people that vaccination can prevent this disease.


(AP) (31/5/2004 Agenzia Fides; Righe:24; Parole:263)