The growing measles outbreak in the US, with over 300 confirmed cases as of March 13, 2025, raises concerns about the spread of this highly contagious and potentially deadly disease. As vaccination rates among kindergarteners drop, many children are left vulnerable to infection.
The measles virus is highly contagious and can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, ear infections, brain swelling, and even death. With over 300 confirmed cases reported in the United States as of March 13, 2025, concerns are growing about the spread of the disease.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the measles virus.
It affects people of all ages but is most severe in young children.
The virus spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include 'fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads to other parts of the body.'
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles killed over 207,500 people in 2019.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles, with two doses of the measles vaccine providing protection for up to 93% of recipients.
Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, which can be mistaken for other illnesses. A characteristic rash usually appears three to five days later, starting on the face and spreading down the body. People are infectious up to four days before the rash appears and again after it has resolved.
While nutrition cannot prevent measles or a bad outcome after contracting it, vaccination is the best way to gain protection. However, measles vaccination rates among kindergarteners have dropped significantly in recent years, leaving many children vulnerable to infection.
Measles vaccination is a crucial preventive measure against measles, a highly contagious viral disease.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles vaccination has led to a 93% reduction in measles deaths worldwide since 2000.
The vaccine is administered in two doses, typically at 12-15 months and 4-6 years of age.
It provides long-term immunity against measles, protecting individuals from severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and death.
The measles vaccine is highly effective in preventing serious disease and infection. Two doses of the vaccine provide about 97% protection against measles, making it a safe and effective way to prevent the spread of the virus. Adults who have been vaccinated as children are unlikely to contract measles again, but may still be at risk if they have not received two doses.
Measles vaccination is a crucial step in preventing the spread of measles, a highly contagious viral disease.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), measles vaccination has led to an 84% reduction in measles deaths since 2000.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive two doses of the measles vaccine, with the first dose administered at 12-15 months and the second dose at 4-6 years.
Measles vaccination is estimated to have prevented over 20 million deaths worldwide between 2000 and 2015.
Measles is one of the most contagious diseases, with each infected person able to pass the virus to 12 to 18 susceptible people. ‘Vaccination is the best way to prevent measles and its complications.’ While nutrition cannot prevent measles or a bad outcome after contracting it, vaccination is the best way to gain protection.
If you are unsure whether you should get vaccinated against measles, consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual risk factors and determine the best course of action for you.
- sciencenews.org | Measles is spreading. Here’s what experts say you should know
