Measles Outbreak
With the recent news of a measles outbreak in Florida, many questions have arisen with our patients as to what exactly measles is, why it is so concerning and ways in which we can protect our children from this highly infectious disease.
Measles is a highly contagious viral infection that can lead to severe complications. These can include more benign conditions of ear infections and diarrhea, to more severe conditions such as pneumonia and encephalitis (swelling of the brain). One out of every 5 people (mainly children) who get measles will be hospitalized. Three out of every 1000 patients who contract measles will die, thus prevention from acquiring the disease is critically important1. Dr. Rupa Shah, the founder of Clackamas and Oregon Pediatrics, recently stated, “fortunately, we have a safe and effective vaccine against this potentially deadly and highly contagious disease. It is our job as Pediatricians to educate and encourage our parents and patients and to take these vaccines to protect ourselves and our community.”
Protecting against measles involves a combination of vaccination, maintaining good hygiene practices, and promoting public awareness.
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent measles. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is safe and highly recommended. Ensuring that individuals receive both doses, typically given in childhood, provides long-lasting immunity. Immunization not only protects the individual but also contributes to community immunity, reducing the overall risk of measles outbreaks. After obtaining the two dose MMR series, patients are 97-99% protected from developing measles2. In the cases of those who do acquire measles in the vaccinated population, the disease course is very mild.
Maintaining good hygiene practices is crucial in preventing the spread of measles. Proper hand hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and water, is essential. Measles is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets, so avoiding close contact with infected individuals is crucial.
In addition to vaccination, quarantine measures for individuals diagnosed with measles are essential to prevent further transmission. Isolating infected individuals and implementing contact tracing help contain the spread of the virus. Health authorities play a critical role in swiftly responding to measles cases, ensuring timely identification, and implementing necessary measures to protect public health.
Travelers should be aware of the measles vaccination requirements for their destination. Checking vaccination records and ensuring immunity before traveling can prevent the importation and spread of measles across borders.
Dr. Rupa Shah
In conclusion, a comprehensive approach to protecting against measles involves widespread vaccination, good hygiene practices, public awareness, and swift response measures by healthcare authorities. By collectively working towards these goals, we can reduce the incidence of measles, safeguard individuals and communities, and move closer to the goal of measles elimination. As Dr. Shah states, “we can eliminate measles in our lifetimes.”
References:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Epidemiology and Prevention of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases. Chapter 10, Measles. 8th Edition, 2004.
2. Measles, mumps, rubella vaccination: What everyone should know. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/public/index.html. Accessed June 22, 2018.