Title: Measles Outbreaks in the United States: A Call for Vaccination and Community Protection
Subtitle: Understanding the Contagious Nature of Measles and Strategies to Prevent Its Spread
Introduction: Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, has made a comeback in the United States despite being eliminated in 2000. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported an increase in measles cases from 856 in 2019 to over 20,059 as of June 27, 2024. This surge is a reminder of the importance of vaccination and community protection against this preventable disease.
Background: Measles is one of the most contagious viruses on Earth. It can spread through coughing, sneezing, or even touching a surface that has been infected. Before the vaccine became available in 1963, more than 3 million people contracted measles every year in the United States, leading to approximately 48,000 hospitalizations and about 400 to 500 deaths each year (many of them children).
Facts:
- Measles is one of the most contagious viruses on Earth.
- Up to 9 out of 10 people who are not protected will become infected if they breathe the contaminated air or touch a surface that has been infected.
- Measles is especially deadly for babies and young children who are not vaccinated.
- The CDC reported 856 cases of measles in 2019, 1,274 cases in 2020, and over 20,059 cases as of June 27, 2024.
- Before the vaccine became available in the United States in 1963, more than 3 million people contracted measles every year.
- About 48,000 were hospitalized and about 400 to 500 died each year (many of them children).
- Measles cases dropped during the COVID-19 pandemic but have since risen again.
Prevention: The best protection against measles is vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is approximately 97% effective at preventing measles. Children should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: one between 12-15 months old and another between 4 and 6 years old.
Community protection: Higher vaccination rates help protect the community from measles outbreaks. Achieving a herd immunity rate of 95% or greater is essential to prevent measles from spreading.
Conclusion: Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious complications and even death, especially for young children who are not vaccinated. Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect individuals and communities against measles outbreaks. By ensuring that children receive their recommended doses of the MMR vaccine, we can work together to prevent the spread of this disease.