The United States saw a rise in measles cases last week, with 122 new infections reported. However, only four of these cases were in Texas, where the major outbreak earlier this year is now showing signs of slowing. Health officials have confirmed a total of 1,168 measles cases across the U.S. as of Friday, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Texas has decided to release updated case counts on a weekly basis, indicating a significant decline in new infections.
The outbreaks in Michigan and Pennsylvania have officially ended, with no new cases reported in either state for six weeks. The outbreak in Texas, which was the largest in the country during the winter and spring months, appears to be under control.
Other Major Outbreaks in North America
Measles outbreaks continue in other parts of North America. Ontario, Canada, has recorded 2,009 cases of measles from October through early June, with the first death from the outbreak reported on Thursday. The victim was an infant who had congenital measles, as well as other pre-existing health conditions.
Alberta, Canada, has reported 761 measles cases as of Thursday, while Chihuahua, Mexico, has seen 1,940 cases and four deaths, according to the state health ministry.
In the U.S., the CDC identifies active outbreaks in several states, including Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Montana, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, and Oklahoma. An unvaccinated adult in New Mexico and two children in Texas have died from measles this year.
Texas Measles Cases Decline
Texas has seen a total of 742 confirmed measles cases across 35 counties, with the majority of cases in West Texas. The outbreak began in a Mennonite community in Gaines County, where 411 people have been infected since January. Fewer than 10 cases are currently considered infectious, and 94 people have been hospitalized.
The state’s most recent measles-related death occurred in April, when an 8-year-old child in West Texas passed away from complications related to the virus. Another unvaccinated child died earlier in the year.
Measles Cases in Other States
New Mexico has reported 81 measles cases, with two new infections in the past week. The majority of cases are in Lea County, with other cases spread across Sandoval, Eddy, and Dona Ana counties. One unvaccinated adult died from the disease in March.
Oklahoma has confirmed 15 measles cases, with one reported last week. The state is withholding specific county information, but health officials continue to monitor the situation closely.
Colorado has seen 12 cases in total, including a cluster of seven related cases linked to a Turkish Airlines flight that arrived in Denver in mid-May. Illinois, Kansas, Montana, and North Dakota are also dealing with smaller outbreaks, with some states reporting cases linked to international travel.
Global Context of the Outbreaks
The U.S. has seen a rise in measles cases linked to international travel. According to the CDC, there have been more cases of measles imported from abroad this year compared to last, primarily affecting unvaccinated Americans returning home. The U.S. nearly lost its measles elimination status in 2019, when the number of cases reached 1,274.
The Importance of Vaccination
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles. The CDC recommends that children receive their first MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine between 12 and 15 months, with a second dose between ages 4 and 6. Adults concerned about waning immunity can safely receive an additional dose of the vaccine.
Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Although most people recover without complications, the virus can lead to serious issues, including pneumonia, brain swelling, blindness, and death.
Health officials stress the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect communities through “herd immunity.” However, vaccination rates have been declining, with some parents opting out due to personal or religious reasons.
Symptoms and Treatment of Measles
Measles symptoms typically start with a high fever, runny nose, cough, and red, watery eyes. A rash usually develops a few days later, starting on the face and spreading down the body. The fever may spike to over 104°F when the rash appears.
There is no specific treatment for measles, but doctors focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Infected individuals are advised to stay isolated to prevent spreading the virus to others.
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