Measles Makes a Comeback: Why Vaccination Rates Matter

Measles is back in a big way in the U. S. After being declared eliminated in 2000, the country is now seeing the highest number of cases in decades. Over 1, 200 cases have been reported this year alone. Even more concerning, three people have died from the disease, all of whom were unvaccinated. The resurgence of measles is largely due to low vaccination rates. In Gaines County, Texas, where a recent outbreak occurred, only 82% of kindergarteners have received both doses of the MMR vaccine. Experts say a 95% vaccination rate is needed to prevent the spread of the disease. The outbreak in Texas is not an isolated incident. Similar outbreaks have occurred in other parts of the country, including New York in 2019. In response to that outbreak, New York launched a massive vaccination campaign, which helped contain the spread. However, efforts to combat the current outbreak in Texas have been hampered by a lack of funding and misinformation. One of the biggest challenges in fighting the measles outbreak is combating misinformation. Some people are turning to unproven treatments like vitamin A instead of getting vaccinated. While vitamin A can be beneficial in certain cases, it is not a treatment for measles. The MMR vaccine, on the other hand, is highly effective, with two doses providing 97% protection against the disease. Measles can be a serious and even deadly disease, especially for young children. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a blotchy rash. In severe cases, the disease can lead to pneumonia or swelling of the brain. According to the CDC, 1 to 3 out of every 1, 000 children with measles will die from complications. To prevent the spread of measles, experts recommend getting vaccinated. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective, and it offers lifelong protection against the disease. In Texas, officials have recommended an early dose of the vaccine for babies ages 6 to 11 months, as well as a second dose for unvaccinated children over 12 months old.