A sharp rise in measles cases has been reported in Kansas, with 32 confirmed cases as of Wednesday, according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. This represents a nearly 40% increase from two weeks ago.
The outbreak is concentrated in southwestern Kansas, with new cases reported in Finney, Ford, Grant, Gray, Haskell, Kiowa, Morton, and Stevens counties. The majority of cases involve children and teens, accounting for 26 out of the 32 confirmed cases.
Vaccination status also plays a significant role in the outbreak. Unvaccinated patients account for the majority of cases, with only one patient having been vaccinated as required by their age group. There have been no deaths reported, but one hospitalization has occurred.
The US is experiencing a similar surge in measles cases, with 607 confirmed cases across 22 states. Health officials emphasize that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective, and that herd immunity can provide protection to those who are not infected. However, vaccination rates among US kindergartners have declined, contributing to the recent outbreak.
Measles were officially considered eliminated from the US in 2000, but new cases continue to occur when individuals contract the disease abroad and return to the country.
Source: https://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article303911631.html