Measles Cases Surge in the US: Latest Updates and Concerns
The United States is currently facing a surge in measles cases, with at least 41 cases reported in 16 states since the beginning of the year, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This number has increased from the previous week’s tally of 35 cases in 15 states. Michigan is the latest addition to the list, with one travel-related case of measles confirmed in Oakland County.
Florida has also experienced a rise in measles cases this week, following an outbreak at an elementary school in Weston. The state’s Department of Public Health has confirmed nine cases in Broward County. The outbreak gained attention when Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo issued a letter deferring to parents on whether to send unvaccinated children to school, contradicting CDC guidance that recommends excluding unvaccinated children from school for 21 days after exposure.
These increasing numbers are concerning, especially considering that the total number of measles cases recorded in the US during the first two months of 2024 is nearing the total number recorded throughout the entire previous year (58 cases). The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) expressed alarm at these outbreaks, emphasizing the importance of vaccination in preventing further spread.
Dr. Marcus Plescia, chief medical officer of ASTHO, stated, “Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000 but is still the most easily transmitted human virus presently in circulation. Thankfully, by following established public health principles, Americans can make informed decisions, prevent outbreaks, and protect our communities. Vaccination is the best and safest way to protect children.”
The increase in measles cases can be attributed to falling vaccination rates and increased travel. Unvaccinated individuals who acquire measles abroad can bring it back to the US. Experts recommend that children receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine in two doses: the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years old. One dose is approximately 93% effective, while two doses are about 97% effective.
However, vaccination rates in the US have fallen short of the federal target. According to a 2023 report from the CDC, only about 92% of US children have received the MMR vaccine by the age of 2, below the target of 95%. Additionally, the percentage of kindergartners who received their state-required measles vaccines for the 2022-23 school year remained below the federal target. The rate of vaccine exemptions for children has also reached its highest level ever reported in the US.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to severe complications and even death. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash of red spots. In rare cases, it can result in pneumonia, encephalitis, or death. Measles can also weaken the immune system and delete its immune memory.
Dr. Plescia emphasized the seriousness of measles, particularly for children, stating, “At least 1 in 5 unvaccinated people in the United States who contract measles is hospitalized.” The last significant measles outbreak in the US occurred in 2018-19 in Rockland County, New York, primarily among unvaccinated children in Orthodox Jewish communities. In 2019, the US reported 1,274 cases of measles in 31 states, the highest number since 1992.
It is crucial for individuals to prioritize vaccination to prevent further outbreaks and protect communities. By adhering to established public health principles and making informed decisions, Americans can play a significant role in curbing the spread of measles. The CDC continues to emphasize the importance of vaccination as the best and safest way to protect children from this highly contagious disease.
Sources:
– CNN
