The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that 95% of measles cases in the U.S. are found in individuals who are either unvaccinated or have uncertain vaccination status. The growing measles outbreak in the U.S. has now reached 301 confirmed cases, surpassing the total number of cases reported in 2024. In response, the CDC has issued a measles advisory for travelers and healthcare professionals, emphasizing the importance of vaccination to prevent the disease from spreading. High vaccination rates not only protect individuals who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons but also help prevent outbreaks in the community. As of March 14, more than 300 measles cases have been confirmed in 14 states across the country, with adults and children under 20 accounting for the majority of cases. The CDC has linked 280 cases to three separate outbreaks in the country, with Texas reporting the highest number of cases at 259. Additionally, New Mexico has reported 35 cases. It is concerning that one death from measles has been confirmed in an unvaccinated child in Texas, while another death is under investigation in New Mexico. The global impact of measles is also significant, with a surge in cases reported in Europe in 2024. The CDC advises healthcare professionals to stress the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine to parents and unvaccinated adults. Given the highly contagious nature of measles, travelers are urged to ensure they are fully vaccinated before embarking on trips and to monitor themselves for symptoms upon return. Dr. Anne Liu, a clinical associate professor at Stanford University, warns that measles can be deadly, especially for unvaccinated individuals and those with compromised immune systems. Experts emphasize the effectiveness of vaccinations in preventing the spread of measles, which is known as one of the most contagious diseases in existence.
Dr. Danelle Fisher, a pediatrician at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, emphasized that individuals with measles can spread the disease up to 4 days before symptoms appear and 7 to 10 days after. Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist and professor at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, underlined the importance of vaccines as the only safeguard against measles.
“Vaccination is crucial in preventing measles. There are no alternative methods. Despite recent attention, vitamin A does not offer protection against measles,” Schaffner stated.
Dr. Fisher supported this view, noting that individuals who have recovered from measles or are fully vaccinated are at minimal risk of contracting or spreading the disease. Conversely, those who are unvaccinated or have diminishing immunity face a higher threat. Dr. Fisher likened the measles situation for these individuals to the early perceptions of COVID-19 in 2020 before vaccinations were available, emphasizing the need for vaccination to prevent widespread outbreaks.
Both doctors stressed the importance of vaccination not only for individual protection but also to safeguard vulnerable populations who cannot receive vaccines due to medical reasons. They urged vigilance in ensuring children are up to date with their vaccinations and recommended unvaccinated adults to get immunized.
In addition to vaccination, experts advised taking precautions to reduce the risk of measles. Dr. Fisher recommended that unvaccinated individuals limit travel on public transportation and minimize contact with others, especially in high-risk settings like schools or healthcare facilities. She also advised caution around individuals displaying symptoms of measles, as the outbreak continues to spread.
Measles was once a widespread illness in the U.S., causing millions of cases annually before the introduction of the MMR vaccine in the 1950s. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for children, with the first dose typically given between 12-15 months and the second between 4-6 years of age.
Measles is transmitted through the air or direct contact with infected surfaces. Recognizing symptoms and taking preventive measures, such as vaccination, are essential in curbing the spread of this highly contagious disease.
Symptoms of measles typically manifest within two weeks and may include a widespread skin rash, high fever, cough, and sore throat. Complications occur in about 30% of cases, with ear infections and diarrhea being the most common. While serious complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, and subacute sclerosing panencephalitis are rare, measles can also have long-term consequences by compromising immune memory, making individuals susceptible to previously battled infections. Vaccination is crucial in preventing measles and its associated hospitalization risks due to severe illness. Experts emphasize the importance of staying informed and ensuring full vaccination for oneself and family members, as seen in the ongoing outbreak in the United States, particularly in Texas. Vaccination not only protects individuals but also contributes to community immunity.
