The recently released CDC advisory to parents and guardians this travel season warns about the ongoing measles outbreaks in different parts of the globe.
The CDC advisory recommends children get the MMR vaccination up to date to protect against possible infections.
Critical Alert: Measles Outbreak During the Travel Season
Due to the increasing cases in the U.S. and around the globe, the CDC released a health advisory as the measles outbreak is reaching a critical level. It has released guidance to prevent measles among international travelers aged six months and older, as well as children aged 12 months and older who do not have plans for international travel.
The health agency has been informed that there has been 58 confirmed cases of measles across 17 jurisdictions in the U.S. Additionally, there are also seven outbreaks in seven jurisdictions compared to 58 total cases and four outbreaks reported the entire year in 2023.
Among the 58 cases reported in 2024, 93% were associated with international travel. Most of these cases involved children aged 12 months and older who had not received the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.
Several countries, including Austria, the Philippines, Romania, and the United Kingdom, are currently experiencing measles outbreaks.
To prevent measles infections and reduce the risk of community transmission from imported cases, the CDC stresses the importance of ensuring that all U.S. residents traveling internationally, regardless of their destination, are up to date with their MMR vaccinations.
Healthcare providers play a critical role in this effort by ensuring that children receive routine immunizations, including the MMR vaccine.
As per the CDC's recommendations, unvaccinated children aged one year or older should receive two doses of the measles-containing vaccine, administered at least 28 days apart, before embarking on international travel.
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How Contagious Is Measles?
Measles, or rubeola, presents a significant threat due to its high contagiousness, with one infected individual capable of spreading the virus to 9 out of 10 unvaccinated individuals they come into close contact with.
The measles virus can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has left a room. Additionally, transmission can occur through contact with contaminated surfaces, especially if the virus particles are then transferred to the eyes, nose, or mouth of susceptible individuals. Measles is most contagious both before and after the characteristic rash appears, extending the period of potential spread.
The measles vaccine is widely recognized for its efficacy, offering approximately 97% protection against infection with two doses and about 93% with a single dose.
Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, president of the American Medical Association, emphasizes the extensive scientific evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of vaccines in preventing illness and promoting public health.
The CDC's updated travel guidelines advise international travelers unsure of their vaccination status to seek medical advice at least six weeks before their trip to ensure they are fully immunized.
This recommendation differs from previous guidelines, which suggested consulting a healthcare professional at least a month before traveling abroad.
Regarding vaccination timing, the CDC recommends accelerating the schedule for infants to receive their first measles, mumps, and rubella shot, providing protection to babies lacking immunity against this highly contagious infection.
