Measles cases are on the rise in the US, primarily among unvaccinated individuals. Infections have been reported in at least five states, including Alaska, Georgia, New York City, Rhode Island, and Texas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 14 cases nationwide, all of which involve people who are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.
A recent outbreak in western Texas has grown to 24 cases, with nine patients hospitalized. The affected area, Gaines County, has seen a significant increase in vaccine exemptions among children, from 7.5% in 2013 to over 17.5% last year. This trend is mirrored in local schools, where the number of students receiving vaccine exemptions has jumped from 13.08% in 2018-19 to over 47.95% this year.
The Georgia Department of Public Health has also reported two additional measles cases in metro Atlanta among unvaccinated family members. Health officials have urged parents to vaccinate their children, emphasizing the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) shot. The CDC recommends a two-dose MMR vaccination schedule, with one dose providing 93% protection and two doses offering 97% protection.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread quickly among unvaccinated individuals. Complications from measles can range from mild to severe, including viral sepsis, pneumonia, and brain swelling. The rise in cases coincides with the growing influence of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has previously expressed false claims about vaccine safety.
As vaccination rates continue to lag, health officials are sounding the alarm on the dangers of measles. With the US facing a growing outbreak, it is more important than ever for parents to ensure their children receive the necessary vaccinations to protect themselves and those around them from this highly contagious disease.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/measles-cases-rising-us-unvaccinated-health-officials/story?id=118689223