Measles Outbreaks Linked to International Travel Highlight Importance of Vaccination
Measles cases have been on the rise in the U.S. this year, with outbreaks reported in at least three states. Investigators have linked some cases in Indiana, Louisiana, and Ohio to visits to Florida. The initial case of the outbreak in Florida’s Broward County was a 9-year-old child who had not been vaccinated due to a religious exemption.
Health officials are urging unvaccinated Americans to get a shot before international travel to protect against measles, as the CDC reports that 93% of measles infections reported so far this year have been linked to travel outside of the country. The agency has updated its guidance for international travelers to seek out a shot at least six weeks before their trip abroad.
Officials stress the importance of catching up on routine shots that were missed during the pandemic. The measles virus was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, but outbreaks can still occur due to gaps in immunity within the country. Vaccination rates in the U.S. are expected to prevent widespread outbreaks, but pockets of low coverage leave some communities at risk.
With measles vaccination being a crucial tool to prevent outbreaks, health authorities are emphasizing the importance of ensuring everyone is up to date on their shots. The recent outbreaks serve as a reminder of the impact of vaccine-preventable diseases and the need for continued vigilance in maintaining high vaccination rates to protect public health.
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