CDC warns doctors about rising risk of measles in US
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have warned clinicians about the rising risk of measles cases in the United States, a problem that might see the dangerous disease make a comeback all across America.
Between December 1st, 2023, and January 23rd, 2024, there were 23 cases of measles confirmed in the US according to a clinician outreach and communication message from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Seven of the cases were the direct result of international travel and two of the outbreaks were associated with five cases each. Unfortunately, most of the cases were associated with kids who had not received a measles vaccination.
The CDC warned physicians they should be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of measles, which include rashes and coughing, and should note when a patient who is showing signs has traveled to a country with an outbreak.
“Measles cases often originate from unvaccinated or undervaccinated U.S. residents who travel internationally and then transmit the disease to people who are not vaccinated against measles,” the CDC communication explained.
“The increased number of measles importations seen in recent weeks is reflective of a rise in global measles cases and a growing global threat from the disease,” the agency added, though the numbers behind the statement may shock you.
Data from the World Health Organization for the European region, a popular destination for American travelers, showed that the area of 41 member states had well over 42,000 reported cases of measles in 2023.
The total number of reported measles cases in the European region may not seem like a lot at first glance. However, the same area only reported 941 measles cases in 2022, showing that the situation is quite dire in Europe.
“We have seen in the Region not only a 30-fold increase in measles cases, but also nearly 21 000 hospitalizations and 5 measles-related deaths. This is concerning” explained Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
“Vaccination is the only way to protect children from this potentially dangerous disease. Urgent vaccination efforts are needed to halt transmission and prevent further spread,” continued Dr. Kluge.
Only 121 measles cases were reported in the United States in 2022 while a total of just 56 were reported in 2023 according to data from the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, with vaccination being challenged, measles could become a real problem.