Measles is infrequently encountered in the United States; however, there is a growing concern among Americans regarding this preventable virus as cases increase in rural West Texas.
Recently, an unvaccinated child succumbed to the outbreak in West Texas, which has reported over 120 cases. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the last confirmed measles-related death in the country occurred in 2015.
Additionally, there are nine reported cases of measles in eastern New Mexico, although the state health department has indicated that there is no direct link to the Texas outbreak.
Here’s what you need to know about measles and how to safeguard yourself.
What is measles?
Measles is a respiratory illness caused by one of the most contagious viruses known. The virus is transmitted through the air and spreads easily when an infected individual breathes, sneezes, or coughs. It primarily affects children.
“On average, one infected individual can transmit the virus to approximately 15 others,” stated Scott Weaver, director of a center of excellence for the Global Virus Network, an international coalition. “Only a few viruses come close to that level of contagion.”
The infection initially targets the respiratory system and then disseminates throughout the body, leading to symptoms such as high fever, runny nose, cough, red and watery eyes, and a rash.
The rash typically emerges three to five days after the onset of initial symptoms, starting as flat red spots on the face and subsequently spreading to the neck, trunk, arms, legs, and feet. When the rash appears, the fever may exceed 104 degrees Fahrenheit, as reported by the CDC.
There is no specific treatment for measles; therefore, medical professionals focus on alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and ensuring patient comfort.
Health officials note that individuals who have contracted measles once are immune and cannot be reinfected.
Can measles be fatal?
Measles can indeed be fatal, although it is not common.
While it typically does not result in death, complications can arise. Common issues include ear infections and diarrhea. According to the CDC, approximately 20% of unvaccinated individuals in the U.S. who contract measles require hospitalization. Pregnant women who are unvaccinated may face risks such as premature birth or having a baby with low birth weight.
Among children diagnosed with measles, about 5% develop pneumonia, and roughly 0.1% experience encephalitis, which can lead to severe outcomes like seizures, hearing loss, or cognitive impairments.
Weaver, a professional at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, notes that measles is fatal in nearly 1% of cases, primarily affecting children, who tend to experience the most severe symptoms. Pneumonia and its complications are often the leading causes of death in these instances.
How can you prevent measles?
To prevent measles, the most effective strategy is to receive the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The first dose is recommended for children aged 12 to 15 months, with a second dose given between 4 and 6 years.
Weaver emphasizes that prior to the introduction of the vaccine in the 1960s, measles was widespread. The vaccine has proven to be a significant advancement in public health, with extensive data supporting its safety and efficacy.
He further states that outbreaks can be effectively prevented by improving vaccination rates within communities. Maintaining a vaccination rate of 95% is crucial to prevent future occurrences, yet many areas in the country have fallen below this threshold.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, vaccination rates have decreased nationwide, with most states not meeting the 95% vaccination requirement for kindergartners, which is essential for safeguarding communities against measles outbreaks.