The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released an advisory update on Measles last week. There have been 12 outbreaks since the beginning of the year in the US
Measles, considered eliminated in 2000 thanks to high 2 dose measles vaccine coverage is making a comeback. Measles is a virus that can cause pneumonia, encephalitis (infection of the brain tissues), and death. It remains endemic in other countries without strict vaccine laws. Larger outbreaks are occurring in Europe , Africa , and Asia .
Of the 156 cases, 82 were unvaccinated, but 11 had received 2 MMR doses (measles-mumps-rubella vaccine). So that means that even though you have been vaccinated, if your titer for immunity is low, you can still get the infection.
Measles is an acute illness transmitted by coughing and sneezing. It can remain on surfaces and in the air up to 2 hours after leaving an infected person. The CDC recommends that all patients are up to date on their MMR vaccines and other vaccines. Those traveling abroad, and older than 6 months should receive vaccine. Infants aged 6-11 months should receive 1 dose of MMR before departure. Children aged 12 months or older should have documentation of 2 doses of MMR separated by at least 28 days.
Teenagers and adults without evidence of measles immunity should have documented of 2 appropriately spaced doses of MMR vaccine. If you know anyone with a fever and a rash lasting 3 days or more, with temperatures of 101 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, with symptoms of coughing, sore throat or redness in their throat, and conjunctivitis (inflammation of the pink area inside the eyelids), get to a clinic right away. All cases should be isolated and reported to local health departments.
