A growing measles outbreak in the US has prompted a former CDC director to call for stronger, nationwide guidance on infant vaccine doses. Dr. Rochelle Walensky and her co-authors argue that infants living in high-risk areas should receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine.
The current CDC recommendation involves two doses, administered at 12-15 months and 4-6 years old. However, due to recent outbreaks, the authors suggest expanding this guidance to include early vaccination for infants in high-risk areas within the US. This would also advise infants planning to visit high-risk areas domestically or internationally to receive an early dose.
The suggestion is based on historical data showing that unvaccinated children traveling internationally have resulted in the most measles cases in the US. With recent outbreaks and low vaccination rates, there is a growing domestic hazard. Young children under 5 make up one-third of all measles cases and are at higher risk for complications such as hospitalization, pneumonia, and even death.
The CDC has not yet responded to comments on this proposal, but the authors believe it is necessary to protect vulnerable populations. With more than 200 cases confirmed in western Texas and other outbreaks reported nationwide, the need for enhanced guidance is clear.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/former-cdc-director-argues-stronger-nationwide-guidance-infant/story?id=119789792