Over 2000 Fines Issued in German Border State to Those Refusing Measles Vaccination

In the German border state of North Rhine-Westphalia, over 2096 fines were issued last year to individuals who refused to vaccinate themselves or their children against measles. The disease appears to be on the rise in Germany, with vaccine refusals varying from one municipality to another and depending on individuals’ financial circumstances.

Varying Fines Based on Location and Financial Situation

The fines issued to those refusing the measles vaccine varied between 100 and 1200 euros, depending on their location and financial situation. In some cases, offenders were also barred from accessing facilities like kindergartens or nursing homes.

Mandatory Vaccination for Children and Health Workers

Since March 2020, it has been mandatory in Germany for children attending kindergarten or school to be vaccinated against measles. Teachers and healthcare personnel are also required to receive the vaccine against this contagious disease.

Increase in Measles in North Rhine-Westphalia

There appears to be an increase in measles cases in North Rhine-Westphalia. According to the Rheinische Post, 37 cases have already been reported in the state bordering the Netherlands this year. In comparison, only 24 cases were reported in the entire year of 2023.

The state’s Health Minister Karl-Josef Laumann informs that three-quarters of the infected individuals are unvaccinated.

Measles Outbreak in the Netherlands

Last Thursday, the Dutch GGD reported a measles outbreak in and around Eindhoven. All fifteen infected individuals were unvaccinated. The Dutch National Institute for Public Health (RIVM) attributes the outbreak to the declining vaccination rate in the Netherlands.