CDC Issues Health Advisory on Measles Surge Amid Declining Vaccination Rates: What You Need to Know

The recent surge in measles cases both within the U.S. and abroad has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to issue a health advisory. This year, domestic cases have already surpassed the total number from the previous year, with 58 confirmed cases across 17 states and cities. Many of these cases have been linked to international travel, with countries such as Austria, the Philippines, Romania, and the United Kingdom currently experiencing measles outbreaks.

To prevent infection and reduce the risk of community transmission, the CDC emphasized the importance of being up-to-date on measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccinations before traveling internationally. While vaccination is highly effective at preventing measles with a 97 percent effectiveness rate for a full two-dose schedule, immunization rates have declined in recent years due to reasons such as anti-vaccine sentiment and concerns about vaccine safety during pregnancy.

Measles is highly contagious and can cause symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, pink eye, and a characteristic rash. It spreads through respiratory droplets that can remain on surfaces for up to two hours after an infected person has been in the area. Nine out of ten unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus can become infected.

In response to this advisory, healthcare professionals should encourage early childhood education providers to ensure that students are current with their MMR vaccinations. Additionally, all U.S. residents six months or older who are planning to travel internationally and have no evidence of immunity should receive MMR vaccines before their departure