European Immunization Week

The current upsurge in certain diseases worldwide is a reminder of the vital importance of immunisations in combating certain transmissible infections, particularly measles. The Principality of Monaco is no exception, and cases continue to rise in neighbouring countries such as France.

This disease stems from the most contagious virus known: a single infected case can spread to up to twenty other contacts (1).

In addition to being highly contagious, this disease can develop into severe forms, with 1 in 5 people hospitalised following infection (2).

There is currently no cure, but a vaccine is available. The measles vaccine not only prevents severe forms of the disease but also prevents transmission of the virus or from being infected in over 97% of cases (3). This protection lasts a lifetime (4).

In Monaco, vaccination against measles is not compulsory, however, the Prince's Government strongly advises that you and your family get vaccinated.

Please note that the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is 100% covered by health insurance if it is clearly stated on the prescription by the prescriber and provided that the child is under 17 years of age.

Vaccinations can be provided by your doctor.

Your doctor can offer advice on how to get vaccinated or how to catch up if you have not been fully vaccinated and can also discuss other recommended vaccinations with you.

To mark European Immunization Week, the Prince's Government would also like to remind everyone of the importance of vaccinating young girls and boys against the human papillomavirus (HPV). This is the most dangerous infection known: it goes completely undetected but can lead to numerous cancers (5).

HPV is the leading cause of cervical cancer in women, but also the leading cause of throat cancer in men (6,7).

As everybody will be exposed to this virus during their lifetime, men, and women alike, the aim of this vaccine is not to prevent infection, but to prevent the HPV virus from causing these cancers.

Here are the different vaccination schedules according to your age: