Measles cases in the US are soaring, with over 1,168 confirmed cases across 33 states, nearing a 30-year high. The number of cases has quadrupled compared to last year and is on track to surpass the 1992 record.
The CDC reports that nearly all confirmed cases (95%) involve unvaccinated or under-vaccinated individuals, with some receiving only one dose of the measles, mumps, rubella vaccine. The recommended vaccination protocol includes two doses, which are 97% effective against measles.
Low vaccination rates have contributed to the outbreak. During the 2023-2024 school year, 92.7% of kindergartners received the MMR vaccine, a decline from previous years. The CDC’s data show that vaccination rates have been lagging in recent years, which is fueling the measles epidemic.
The US is experiencing its worst outbreak since 2019, with two school-aged children and an unvaccinated adult having died due to measles. An outbreak in western Texas has slowed down recently but still poses a significant threat.
As vaccination rates continue to be low, experts warn that more cases can be expected. The CDC urges people to receive the recommended two doses of the MMR vaccine to protect themselves against measles and other preventable diseases.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/us-measles-cases-nearing-30-year-high-us/story?id=122581810