Measles Elimination Requires Pre-Trip Vaccinations

The United States has maintained the elimination of measles since 2000, despite several outbreaks in various states such as Ohio.

Most measles outbreaks occur when unvaccinated or under-vaccinated people travel to and from the U.S., says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Measles cases worldwide increased by about 80% during 2022.

For example, India recently reported 57,550 measles cases over the past year.

Additionally, the CDC published a global Watch-Level 1 Travel Health Notice regarding measles outbreaks in Africa and other countries.

As of August 3, 2023, the CDC reported 19 measles cases in thirteen U.S. jurisdictions in 2023. In 2022, there were 121 measles cases.

Maintaining measles elimination in the U.S. requires continued investment in the measles vaccination program, which is instrumental to achieving elimination.

And healthcare providers and public health authorities need to remain vigilant to rapidly recognize measles and take steps to mitigate the spread within communities for continued measles elimination.

On August 10, 2023, the CDC urged all healthcare providers to ensure their patients are current on the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine). Measles vaccines are available at health clinics and pharmacies in the U.S.

Furthermore, healthcare providers should consider measles a diagnosis in anyone with a fever (≥101°F or 38.3°C) and a generalized maculopapular rash with cough, coryza, or conjunctivitis who has recently been abroad, especially in countries with ongoing outbreaks.

Measles is highly contagious.

Around 90% of people who are not protected will become infected following exposure to the measles virus. 

To better answer clinical questions, the CDC has scheduled a webinar for August 17, 2023, from 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM ET, at this Zoom Link: https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1603132944; Webinar ID: 160 313 2944; Passcode: 532989.