Measles Outbreaks Are Spreading Fast Across the US, Here’s Why

The United States has experienced its first measles death in ten years, a grim reminder of the dangers of this easily preventable disease. A “school-aged child” in Texas, who was not vaccinated, tragically passed away after testing positive for measles. This marks a disturbing moment in the ongoing measles outbreak that has spread across the nation.

The Spread of Measles

Since late January, Texas has confirmed 124 cases of it, with most of those affected being children. Eighteen people have been hospitalized. The outbreak has since spread to neighboring New Mexico, as well as states like Alaska, California, Georgia, and New York. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) continues to monitor the situation.

The Preventability of Measles

Despite being easily preventable with the disease, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine, the disease continues to claim lives. Epidemiologist John Brownstein emphasized the danger of it, stating, “It’s a severe disease that can take lives despite being preventable with vaccination.” The World Health Organization reports that more than 60 million deaths were averted globally due to vaccinations between 2000 and 2023.

Low Vaccination Rates and the Consequences

Unfortunately, the U.S. is seeing rising cases, partly due to low vaccination rates, especially in certain religious communities. Texas, for example, has seen a high number of cases in an “undervaccinated” Mennonite community. The CDC strongly recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine to protect themselves.

As measles continues to spread, the importance of vaccination is clearer than ever.