Measles incidence estimations based on the notification by general practioners were suboptimal

van Isterdael, Chantal E.D; van Essen, Gerrit A; Kuyvenhoven, Marijke M; Hoes, Arno W; Stalman, Wim A.B; de Wit, Niek J

doi:10.1016/j.jclinepi.2003.11.012

« Previous Next »Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
Volume 57, Issue 6 , Pages 633-637, June 2004

Measles incidence estimations based on the notification by general practioners were suboptimal

Chantal E.D van Isterdael
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, P.O. Box 85060, Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
Gerrit A van Essen
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, P.O. Box 85060, Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
- Corresponding author. Tel.: +31-30-2538188; fax: +31-30-2539028.
Marijke M Kuyvenhoven
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, P.O. Box 85060, Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
Arno W Hoes
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, P.O. Box 85060, Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands
Wim A.B Stalman
- Institute for Research in Extramural Medicine, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorstraat 7, 1081 BT Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Niek J de Wit
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, P.O. Box 85060, Utrecht 3508 AB, The Netherlands

Accepted 17 November 2003.

Abstract

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the notification by general practitioners (GPs) to the Municipal Health Service (MHS) and the presentation of measles complaints by patients to the GP during a measles epidemic in a 78% vaccinated population.

Study design and setting

Measles cases in children under 13 years were identified via questionnaires, GPs' records, and MHS's records. Consultation rate, notification rate, and completeness of notification were determined. Determinants of consultation were identified by multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Among 1654 responders, 164 measles cases were identified. Consultation rate: 30%; notification rate: 30% (range among GPs: 0–62%); completeness of notification: 9%. Determinants of GP consultation: perceived seriousness of illness (adjusted OR 45; 95% CI: 6–347), self-reported complications (adjusted OR 9; 95% CI: 1–70), and need to consult for respiratory tract infections (adjusted OR 8; 95% CI: 1–51).

Conclusion

Incidence estimations based on the notification by GPs to the MHS are suboptimal for measles in The Netherlands. Perceived seriousness of illness seemed to be the most important factor to consult.

Keywords: Measles, Epidemic, General practitioner, Complications, Notification, The Netherlands