A measles outbreak continues to spread across the US, with five confirmed cases in Michigan and over 700 cases nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The virus is highly contagious and can linger in the air for hours after an infected person has been in a given space.
The disease causes a range of symptoms, including high fevers, tiredness, painful runny nose, cough, red eyes, and a characteristic rash. Measles can be especially severe in young infants and those with compromised immune systems, leading to complications such as bacterial pneumonia, low oxygen levels, and brain inflammation. The virus can also lead to stillbirth during pregnancy and death, particularly among infants and young children.
Experts say that measles outbreaks occur due to a lack of strong population-based immunity to the disease. With vaccination rates dropping below 95%, the virus is able to spread quickly. The most recent large outbreak of measles was due to a decline in vaccination rates.
Fortunately, the measles vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease. Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide almost complete protection against measles, with an efficacy rate of over 97%. However, it’s still possible for fully vaccinated individuals to contract the virus and become seriously ill if they are exposed to a large dose of the virus.
Health officials recommend that children be vaccinated earlier than scheduled in certain circumstances, such as when they will undergo immunosuppressive treatment or travel overseas. They also advise that pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems take special precautions to protect themselves from exposure.
The CDC website provides up-to-date information on measles cases nationwide. Health experts urge everyone to stay informed and take steps to prevent the spread of the virus, including getting vaccinated if they are not already fully protected.
Source: https://www.clickondetroit.com/news/local/2025/04/17/12-questions-about-measles-answered-as-virus-continues-to-spread-in-michigan