The number of measles cases in the U.S. this year is already triple the total from last year, with 188 cases reported so far. Experts attribute this increase to declining vaccination rates in the U.S. and a rise in measles cases worldwide. The country has seen 13 outbreaks this year, with the largest linked to a migrant shelter in Chicago. Most cases have been reported in children under 5 years old, with 93 people hospitalized. The U.S. nearly lost its measles elimination status in 2019 due to outbreaks in Orthodox Jewish communities in New York. International travel has also contributed to the spread of measles in the U.S. A person infected with measles can spread the disease to up to 90% of people close to them if they are not immune, highlighting the importance of high vaccination coverage. Vaccine hesitancy and disruptions to vaccination services during the pandemic have contributed to the global increase in measles cases and deaths. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, pink eye, runny nose, white spots in the mouth, and a rash. Around 1 to 3 out of every 1,000 children infected with measles die from complications. Experts urge communities to maintain at least 95% vaccination coverage to prevent sustained transmission of measles.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
US Measles cases tripled compared to last year
