Measles Prevention 101: Advice and Updates for Parents
As measles cases continue to rise worldwide, experts emphasize the importance of ensuring children are adequately protected against the disease.
Clusters of measles cases have been reported recently in the West Midlands and London in the UK. At the same time, the US witnessed exposure to measles at a Sacramento hospital in early March. Furthermore, an outbreak in Chicago has prompted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to dispatch a team of infectious disease experts.
Dr. Frank Esper, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic Children’s, notes that measles predominantly affects children and can result in more severe infections. Complications from measles can be severe, and the disease may also weaken the immune system, rendering individuals more susceptible to other illnesses.
The World Health Organization’s European Region saw a significant increase in measles cases last year, indicating the disease’s global resurgence. Factors contributing to the rise in cases include vaccine hesitancy and increased international travel.
Vaccine hesitancy remains a significant concern, with unvaccinated populations at higher risk of measles outbreaks. Dr. Julie E. Mangino from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center highlights potential outbreaks associated with international events such as the Olympic Summer Games in Paris.
Parents are urged to ensure their children are up to date on vaccinations to mitigate the risk of outbreaks, significantly if their vaccination schedules were disrupted during the COVID-19 lockdowns.
Measles symptoms typically manifest one to two weeks after exposure, including cough, red eyes, runny nose, high fever, and a characteristic rash. Complications of measles can be severe, including ear infections, pneumonia, and encephalitis.
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through airborne transmission. Virus particles remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes. Additionally, the virus can be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces and the face.
The measles vaccine is highly effective, with more than 97% of individuals who receive two doses of the vaccine being protected against the disease. Vaccination is typically administered in two doses during childhood, and adults generally do not require revaccination unless there is a significant outbreak in their community or if they have upcoming international travel plans.
For individuals unsure of their vaccination status, healthcare providers can assist in locating vaccination records and administering the vaccine if necessary. Vaccination is recommended as a preventive measure, as there is no harm in receiving an additional dose of the vaccine, and it ensures protection against measles.
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