The United States has recorded its first measles-related death in over 10 years, as cases surge across at least nine states, with Texas emerging as the epicenter of the outbreak.
Measles Outbreak: Key Facts
- Highly contagious virus affecting the respiratory tract and spreading throughout the body.
- Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, and a full-body rash.
- The outbreak has hospitalized several patients, emphasizing its severity.
- Texas reports 146 confirmed cases, with only 5 vaccinated individuals—highlighting the risk for unvaccinated people.
Why Is This Happening?
- Vaccine hesitancy and exemptions are increasing, despite the availability of the MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps, Rubella).
- The MMR vaccine has virtually eliminated measles in the U.S. since the early 2000s, but declining vaccination rates are leading to a resurgence.
- Measles is preventable with a two-dose MMR vaccine, which is 97% effective at preventing the disease.
Why Measles Is Dangerous
- Highly contagious – spreads through coughing, sneezing, or even breathing in the same space as an infected person.
- Severe complications – includes pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death, especially in young children and immunocompromised individuals.
- No specific treatment – prevention through vaccination is the best defense.
