Measles Spreads Across the U.S.

Health Measles Spreads Across the U.S. officials have raised concerns about the increasing spread of measles, with most cases in the U.S. this year involving individuals aged 19 and under, particularly those who were unvaccinated or had an unconfirmed vaccination status. Nearly 100 cases have been reported across Texas and New Mexico, sparking fears over the resurgence of a potentially deadly disease that was declared eradicated in the U.S. over two decades ago.

In Texas, 90 cases of measles—primarily affecting children under 17—were identified in the South Plains region, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. This marks a sharp rise from the 24 cases reported earlier this month. The department warned that additional cases are likely to emerge in the outbreak area and surrounding communities. Meanwhile, New Mexico has recorded nine cases in Lea County, which borders the South Plains. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (D) has urged residents with symptoms to contact local health authorities.

Measles, which poses the greatest risk to children under 5, can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and the appearance of tiny white spots known as koplik spots. As the illness progresses, a rash may develop, characterized by small raised bumps or flat red spots. There is no specific treatment for measles, and the disease can be fatal, particularly for young children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that one to two out of every 1,000 children infected with measles may die, with pneumonia being the leading cause of death.

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CDC Statistics

The U.S. declared measles eliminated in 2000, attributing this success to widespread vaccination efforts following the introduction of the vaccine in 1963. However, vaccination rates have declined in recent years, especially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Even a slight drop in immunization can significantly raise the risk of outbreaks. The CDC warns that measles can spread rapidly in communities where vaccination rates fall below 95%. Most cases this year have involved unvaccinated individuals or those with unknown vaccination status.

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Robert F Kennedy Jr.

The resurgence of measles coincides with the growing influence of anti-vaccine rhetoric, amplified by social media and some public figures. President Donald Trump, who has expressed skepticism about vaccines, has a mixed record on the issue. His appointee for health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has a history of promoting vaccine misinformation and recently vowed to review childhood vaccination schedules, suggesting they may contribute to the rise in chronic illnesses. During his campaign, Trump also pledged to reduce federal funding for schools that mandate vaccines.

Before the measles vaccine became available in 1963, the disease caused an estimated 400 to 500 deaths and 48,000 hospitalizations annually in the U.S. This year, approximately a quarter of reported measles cases have resulted in hospitalizations, either for isolation or to manage complications.

 

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