The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a health advisory after a rise in measles cases in the U.S. and abroad, with the number of domestic infections this year already reaching 2023's total.
As of last week, the CDC had confirmed 58 measles cases in 17 states and cities this year. The agency noted in its advisory that the majority (54 cases) were related to international travel.
“A number of countries are experiencing measles outbreaks, including travel destinations such as Austria, the Philippines, Romania, and the United Kingdom. To prevent measles infection and reduce the risk of community transmission from imported goods, destinations must Regardless of the country, all U.S. residents traveling internationally must keep their MMR current. [measles, mumps and rubella] They should be vaccinated,” the advisory states.
Vaccination against measles is highly effective against the infection, with a two-dose schedule being 97% effective. However, vaccination rates have declined slightly in recent years due to both the COVID-19 pandemic and anti-vaccine public opinion.
Measles is highly contagious, especially in unvaccinated people. Symptoms of the infection include fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a characteristic rash. Measles is spread through the air and can linger on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the room.
This virus can infect up to 9 out of 10 people who are unvaccinated and are exposed to the virus.
The CDC advised early childhood education providers and health care providers to ensure that students are up to date on MMR vaccinations. The agency also emphasized that all U.S. residents six months of age or older who do not have evidence of immunity and are planning to travel abroad should receive the MMR vaccine before departure.
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