Measles cases have been on the rise across the US, with the majority of cases affecting unvaccinated individuals. However, a few breakthrough cases have been reported among fully vaccinated people, highlighting the importance of vaccination. According to the CDC, 97% of reported measles cases were confirmed in those who are either unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status.
Despite being highly effective, the measles vaccine is not 100% effective. Experts say that a small percentage of people can still develop measles, even if they receive the vaccine. In most cases, breakthrough infections are milder than in unvaccinated individuals.
Experts attribute breakthrough cases to primary vaccine failure, secondary vaccine failure, genetic predisposition, or improper storage and handling of the vaccine. However, these cases are rare and tend to have milder disease. A 2020 study found that measles vaccine-protected individuals had a significantly reduced risk of complications, hospitalization, and severe disease.
Measles is highly contagious, with one infected person able to spread it to up to nine out of 10 close contacts who aren’t immune. The experts emphasize the importance of vaccination in preventing outbreaks, as population immunity needs to be above 95% for there to be no risk of measles spreading.
While breakthrough cases may occur, they are not a cause for concern and are expected as case numbers grow. Experts stress that no vaccine is perfect, but regular vaccination remains the best defense against measles.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/measles-breakthrough-cases-vaccination-important/story?id=120276354