Measles Resurfaces in the U.S. with over 700 Confirmed Cases: What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

America is at present observing a worrying surge of measles, an illness once eradicated from America in the year 2000. So far, over 700 cases have been reported in over 20 states, which pose a concern for public health. Some states affected by measles are California, Texas, New York, Florida, and Ohio, among many others. Response teams, who have arrived on the ground from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), work in the hardest-hit areas.

The resurgence is directly attributable to waning vaccination coverage and rising vaccine hesitancy, which exposed populations to this very infectious virus.

What makes measles even harder is its contagious duration; individuals can transmit it four days before and after the rash shows up.

Yes, Even Vaccinated People Can Get It—But It’s Rare

While the measles vaccine is incredibly effective, it’s not foolproof. The MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) provides about 97% protection with two doses and 93% protection with one dose.

"Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles, 1 dose is 93% effective. It is uncommon for someone fully vaccinated to develop measles. However, breakthrough infections (when someone becomes infected after they have been vaccinated) can occur, especially in communities experiencing an outbreak where high levels of measles virus are circulating. The number of breakthrough infections (approximately 5% of total) is consistent with what we have seen in previous years," the US CDC says.

The CDC reports that breakthrough infections can still happen, particularly during outbreaks when the virus is circulating at high levels. However, such instances are rare and usually mild, accounting for about 5% of infections, which aligns with previous years.

How you can protect yourself and your family.

Safety begins with vaccination. Ensure you and your family members are current on the two doses of the MMR vaccine. Children, adolescents, and adults should receive all vaccines unless otherwise instructed by a healthcare provider.

Additional safety precautions include:

Use good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and clean frequently touched surfaces.

• Avoid close contact with individuals who are exhibiting symptoms of respiratory disease.

• Protect your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing to stop the spread of droplets.

• Isolate yourself and seek medical help if symptoms show up. Early detection and response help avert further transmission.

Planning on traveling abroad? Vaccinate yourself first.

If you're planning an international trip, the CDC recommends that everyone in your traveling party be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before your visit. Measles may stay airborne for two hours after an infected individual has vacated the premises, which makes it more likely to occur in populated areas such as airports and tourist hot spots.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Muhammad Faisal Arshad/MSM)