Measles is highly contagious and potentially fatal; this is how you can protect yourself against the spread – NKyTribune

Dr. Nicholas Van Sickels
University of Kentucky

More than two decades ago, measles – a highly contagious and potentially fatal childhood disease – was declared eliminated in the United States. As of April 18, at least 125 cases of measles have been recorded nationwide this year – more than double the number of cases seen in all of 2023.

Measles mainly affects unvaccinated children and 20-40% of infected children require hospitalization. Ear infections, pneumonia, long-term neurological problems and even death can occur. Generally, most will recover, but some will develop complications as a result of the infection.

The sharp increase in the number of cases is due to:

Measels (NKyTribune file photo from CDC)

Experts still believe that measles has been eradicated in the US, but that could change if we don’t continue to take the right preventative measures. In response to the increase in cases, the Centers for Disease Control issued warnings to health care workers and the general public throughout the spring.

How do I protect myself against measles?

Fortunately, the best tool to prevent a measles infection is still very effective. Measles is almost entirely preventable through vaccination.

Due to the inherent contagiousness of measles, 95% or more of the population must be vaccinated to protect the entire population from an outbreak.

This last week of April is World Immunization Week – a good opportunity to discuss the importance of measles vaccination with family and friends, especially those planning to travel internationally or to parts of the US where a measles outbreak is active. The latest tracking of measles cases and more information about the disease can be found on the CDC’s measles webpage.

What are the symptoms of measles?

Symptoms of measles typically include:

After the above symptoms, the characteristic red rash appears, starting from the head and spreading downwards.

People with measles are thought to be contagious from about four days prior to developing the rash until four days after the onset of the rash (with onset on day zero).

What to do if you think you have been exposed

If you are concerned that you or your child has been exposed to measles, contact your doctor immediately.

Fortunately, many of us have never seen a case of measles in our lives. Hopefully, with a renewed focus on prevention, we will never do that.

Dr. Nicholas Van Sickels, MD, director of infection prevention and control at University of Kentucky HealthCare