The recent measles outbreak has raised significant concerns globally, as this highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease continues to spread rapidly. Despite the availability of vaccines, measles cases have surged, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates, highlighting the dangers of complacency and misinformation.
The outbreak poses a threat to vulnerable populations, including children, pregnant women, immunocompromised people and the elderly.
Measles in America: There’s just too many unvaccinated in the Great Plains, esp in rural areas. Other than West Texas the state of Idaho probably has the lowest vaccination rates. Keeping measles out of Idaho will be key to preserving our national elimination status, saving lives pic.twitter.com/ooF1eN7Q3U
— Prof Peter Hotez MD PhD (@PeterHotez) March 27, 2025
Over 500 people have fallen across the country this year including Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico.
Why is measles making a comeback?
The recent spread of measles in the US is partly attributed to international travel, with individuals returning from countries such as those in Europe and Israel carrying the virus. Additionally, lower vaccination rates in certain US communities have increased vulnerability among some groups.
Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb says it's "very important" for a new CDC director to be quickly confirmed, as the Trump administration has not yet floated a next nominee.
— Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) March 23, 2025
"We may have more measles cases this year than we've had in 25 years. And so, having leadership… pic.twitter.com/sVcvcw9sj9
According to the WHO, nearly 40 million children worldwide missed a measles vaccine dose in 2023. The CDC also reported that in the US, childhood vaccination rates dropped by 93 per cent during the 2021-2022 school year.
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease caused by a virus, which can result in severe complications and even death. It spreads easily when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes.
Though it's most common among children, measles can affect anyone.
What are the symptoms?
High fever
Cough
Runny nose
Rashes
Watery eyes
Small white spots inside the cheeks
Being vaccinated is the best way to prevent getting sick with measles or spreading it to other people. The MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine is incredibly effective with two doses offering about 97 per cent protection.
Before the introduction of the vaccine in 1963, an estimated 2.6 million deaths occurred every year due to the disease.
What complications can it lead to?
Blindness
Encephalitis
Diarrhoea and related dehydration
Ear infections
Severe breathing issues including pneumonia
How can you prevent the disease?
Besides getting vaccinated, other prevention tips include:
1. Maintaining hygiene: Washing hands properly
2. Keep a safe distance from anyone showing symptoms
3. Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces and toys
