A growing measles outbreak in west Texas has led doctors to consider vaccinating 6- to 11-month-olds, despite the recommended age of 1 year, to prevent the spread of the highly contagious disease. The outbreak has resulted in nearly 200 cases in Texas and dozens more in neighboring states, with isolated cases reported in California.
Measles can be deadly, causing conditions like encephalitis, pneumonia, and death. Two people have died, both unvaccinated. Experts warn that vaccination rates below 95% put everyone at risk, including those who are vaccinated.
The measles virus is robust, making an unvaccinated person susceptible to infection even after leaving the presence of an infected individual two hours later. Pediatrician Dr. John Rodarte emphasizes the importance of vaccination, stating that one dose provides 93% protection and two doses offer 97-98% protection.
While Los Angeles County has a low measles incidence rate, health officials note that small pockets exist where parents choose not to vaccinate their children. Experts advise those born after 1957 and vaccinated before 1968 to consider a booster shot due to the initial vaccine’s reduced effectiveness.
Measles infections can occur even among vaccinated individuals when high levels of measles are present in a community. The latest outbreak has raised concerns, with parents like Lacey Holmquist, whose son was hospitalized for strep throat, worried about the preventability of the disease.
“It’s heartbreaking that all these kids and adults are getting infected,” Holmquist said. “It’s something that is preventable and doesn’t need to happen.”
Source: https://abc7.com/post/measles-outbreak-grows-texas-other-states-do-need-vaccine-booster-how-vulnerable-is-la-county-expert-weighs/16004381