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The United States has surpassed 5,000 measles cases this year, with infections reported in 45 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Approximately 96% of these cases involve individuals who are unvaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown. The CDC recommends two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine for lifelong protection.
Pennsylvania is experiencing its worst outbreak in years, with over 1,400 cases reported as of late October. The state has confirmed five measles-associated deaths, although the CDC has only confirmed three nationwide. The CDC has sent additional support to Pennsylvania to help manage the outbreak, as reported by Arab News.
Nationwide, hospitalizations due to measles have reached 511, accounting for 11% of all reported cases. The CDC has noted that 42% of cases involve children and adolescents aged 5 to 19, while 17% are in children under 5. The CDC has also highlighted that the majority of cases are locally acquired, with only 18 linked to international travel, according to CIDRAP.
The resurgence of measles, a disease declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, is attributed to declining vaccination rates. CDC Director Erica Shwartz emphasized the safety and effectiveness of the MMR vaccine, urging parents to prioritize vaccination for their children. The CDC has allocated $100 million to states for outbreak response activities, including immunization programs and surveillance efforts.