CDC Issues Warning as Measles Outbreak Spreads Across Multiple States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning regarding the spread of measles across several states. As of January 23, 2024, there have been 23 confirmed cases of measles reported between December 1, 2023, and January 23, 2024. The affected states include Delaware, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and the Washington, D.C. area. Out of these cases, seven are from international travelers. Fortunately, there have been no reported cases of measles in North Carolina so far this year, nor were there any in 2023.
Measles is known to be one of the most infectious diseases, even more so than the flu, COVID-19, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Dr. David Weber, the Medical Director of the Department of Infection Prevention at UNC Medical Center, explains, “If I am infected and everyone around me were susceptible, something like 15 to 18 people around me would become infected. It’s airborne. The virus hangs around the air for a very long time.”
Despite the United States declaring measles eliminated in 2000, there have been sporadic outbreaks in recent years. One notable outbreak occurred in 2019 when there were over 1,100 reported cases nationwide. Dr. Weber emphasizes the importance of a high percentage of the population being immune to the disease through vaccination or prior infection. However, in many areas, the immunity rate falls below the recommended threshold of 95%.
In North Carolina, the vaccination rates for kindergarteners in the 2022-2023 school year were slightly above the national average. According to NCDHHS (North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services), 94% of the state’s kindergarteners were up to date on their measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, compared to the national rate of 93.1%. The MMR vaccine is administered in two doses, with the first dose recommended between 12 and 15 months and the second dose between 4 and 6 years old. Dr. Weber assures that if both doses are received and the individual has a normal immune system, the vaccine is 99% effective in preventing infection.
However, vaccination rates vary across counties in North Carolina. For instance, Durham County had a vaccination rate of only 82.24% among kindergarteners in public schools during the last academic year, while Person County achieved a 100% vaccination rate. These figures include students who received religious and/or medical exemptions within 30 days of enrollment, so the actual vaccination rates may be higher.
It is crucial for individuals who are not vaccinated or have compromised immune systems to pay attention to the recent measles outbreak. Dr. Weber explains that outbreaks often occur in settings where there is a lot of mixing, such as high schools and colleges. The CDC reported that North Carolina experienced a significant increase in MMR vaccination rates between the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 school years, with the largest jump among all states in the southeast.
The CDC advises individuals traveling internationally to ensure they are fully vaccinated at least two weeks before departure, as the vaccine takes time to offer full protection. In North Carolina, uninsured children can receive low or no-cost vaccinations through the state’s Vaccines for Children program, available for kids up to 19 years old.
While overall measles coverage remains high in North Carolina, it is important to note that vaccination rates can vary locally. Some counties and school settings have higher exemption rates, making them more susceptible to a measles outbreak. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions.
Symptoms of measles include high fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and rash. It is important to remember that individuals can be infectious even before showing any symptoms. Therefore, practicing good hygiene and getting vaccinated are essential in preventing the spread of measles.
In conclusion, the recent measles outbreak spreading across multiple states serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and maintaining high immunity rates. While North Carolina has seen improvements in vaccination rates, there is still work to be done to ensure the population remains protected against infectious diseases like measles. By staying informed, getting vaccinated, and following recommended guidelines, individuals can contribute to the prevention of further outbreaks and protect public health.
