Measles Makes a Comeback: Why Vaccines Matter More Than Ever

Measles is back in the US, and it's not just a small problem anymore. Over the past year, there have been more than 2, 200 cases reported, which is a huge jump from previous years. This is the most cases the US has seen since measles was declared eliminated in 2000. And it's not just one big outbreak; there have been multiple large ones, like the one in Texas that had over 760 cases and even caused two children to die. The reason measles is spreading so much is that many people aren't getting vaccinated. More than 95% of the cases have been in people who didn't get the recommended two doses of the MMR vaccine. This is a big problem because measles is highly contagious and can be very serious, especially for young children. Experts are worried that the US might lose its measles elimination status, which would be a big deal. It would mean that the disease is no longer under control in the country. The decision will be made in April by the Pan American Health Organization, which is part of the World Health Organization.There are many reasons why people aren't getting vaccinated. Some have philosophical or personal beliefs against vaccines, while others have trouble meeting school requirements by the deadline. Medical reasons are also cited, but these might include concerns about vaccine safety or side effects. The increase in measles cases is a sign of a bigger problem with the public health system. Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, a former director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, said that the system is "blue in the ICU. " He means that it's in critical condition and needs help. Experts are trying to figure out how to get more people vaccinated. They think that public health messaging needs to be recalibrated and that families need to understand the importance of vaccines. They also think that policy changes, like strengthening school entry requirements, could help. It's unclear what will change individual minds about vaccination. Maybe more families will fear measles reaching their doorstep, or maybe public health messaging will improve. But one thing is clear: the risk for increasingly large outbreaks means there will be many preventable illnesses and deaths ahead.