Measles cases in the US have been slowing down, with an average of 22 weekly cases over the past two weeks. This marks a significant decrease from the rapid increase in new cases seen just a month ago. Public health experts attribute this trend to a combination of factors, including increased vaccination rates, the buildup of natural immunity among those who contracted measles, and a change in behavior among some individuals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed an average of 22 weekly cases over the last two weeks. Even in western Texas, which had been driving most new cases in the US, about 11 cases have been confirmed since May 23. Experts believe that increased vaccination efforts, particularly among parents who previously hesitated due to concerns about vaccine efficacy or safety, have contributed to this decline.
Vaccination rates have seen an increase, with most people in the US already vaccinated against measles. According to health officials, at least 2,500 additional vaccines were distributed in the community based on data received from state health departments and healthcare providers. Dr. Perry Halkitis, dean of the Rutgers School of Public Health, noted that while there is still a good proportion of the population not vaccinated, the overall level of protection against measles remains higher than during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The buildup of natural immunity among those who contracted measles has also played a role in slowing down the virus. According to Dr. Jason Schwartz, an associate professor of public health at Yale School of Public Health, measles is incredibly contagious and can spread easily through close contact with susceptible individuals. However, as more people develop natural immunity, it creates “speed bumps” that slow down the virus’s ability to spread.
The decline in cases has also been attributed to changes in behavior among some individuals. With public awareness campaigns, people are now staying home when they know they are infected, limiting exposures and hospitalizations. This trend is similar to what was observed during the mpox outbreak in 2022.
While measles is not seasonal, experts will closely monitor cases in the fall, when kids return to school and airborne viruses can spread more easily. For now, the slowing of measles cases offers a promising indication that public health efforts are working.
Source: https://abcnews.go.com/Health/measles-cases-slowing-us/story?id=122221061