Global Surge in Measles Cases Sparks Concerns for Outbreaks, CDC Warns Clinicians
Measles, a highly contagious viral infection, is making a comeback worldwide, raising concerns about potential outbreaks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a warning to clinicians, urging them to be vigilant and on the lookout for patients displaying symptoms of measles. This comes as the global transmission of measles is on the rise, with an alarming number of cases reported.
Between December 1, 2023, and January 23, 2024, the US has already seen 23 confirmed cases of measles. Out of these cases, seven were directly imported by international travelers, while two outbreaks occurred, each with more than five cases. Most of the affected individuals were unvaccinated children and teenagers.
Measles outbreaks in the US typically occur when unvaccinated or undervaccinated residents contract the infection abroad and bring it back to their communities. These pockets of unvaccinated individuals then become susceptible to the disease, leading to localized outbreaks.
The decline in vaccination rates against measles is a significant factor contributing to the resurgence of the disease. The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted healthcare systems worldwide, making it challenging for people to access routine immunizations. Additionally, vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation has further eroded vaccination rates.
The CDC’s outreach message, titled “Stay Alert for Measles Cases,” emphasizes the growing global threat posed by measles. The recent increase in measles importations into the US is reflective of the surge in global measles cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the European region witnessed a staggering 40-fold rise in measles cases in 2023 compared to the previous year. In 2022, there were only 941 cases reported, while 42,200 cases were recorded in 2023.
Kazakhstan, which falls under the European region according to the WHO, has experienced a rapid escalation of measles cases. With 13,677 cases reported in 2023, Kazakhstan has the highest incidence of measles in the region. The outbreak is primarily affecting unvaccinated children who missed their routine immunizations during the pandemic. Approximately 65 percent of the reported cases involve children under the age of 5. To combat the outbreak, Kazakhstan is now focused on catching up with vaccinations for children.
The UK is also facing a potential measles outbreak, as warned by the UK Health Security Agency. In the West Midlands region alone, there have been 216 confirmed cases and 103 probable cases since October 2023. Areas with low measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination rates are particularly vulnerable to outbreaks.
Fortunately, the majority of Americans have received their MMR vaccines as per the recommended schedule. Two doses of the vaccine are considered 97 percent effective against measles, providing lifelong protection. However, individuals who remain unvaccinated or undervaccinated are at high risk of infection if exposed to the virus. Measles can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area, making it highly contagious. Up to 90 percent of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus will fall ill. Once infected, people are contagious from four days before the characteristic measles rash appears until four days after.
The resurgence of measles serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vaccination. Measles is a preventable disease, and widespread vaccination is crucial in curbing its transmission. Efforts must be made to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure that routine immunizations are accessible to all, even during times of healthcare disruptions. By staying vigilant and proactive, healthcare professionals and communities can work together to prevent future outbreaks and protect public health.
