On June 21, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published an advisory about the risk of measles infection during the summer travel season.
Measles is highly contagious and cases have been rising globally, requiring extra prevention measures for travelers.
Measles Spreads Easily Among Unvaccinated People
Measles is caused by a virus that is transmitted through the air and by contact with infected people. It spreads easily to those who are unvaccinated.
According to the CDC, one infected person can pass measles to up to 9 out of 10 of their close contacts who aren’t immune.
People with measles typically develop symptoms like:
● high fever
● cough
● runny nose
● rash
Measles can also lead to serious health complications such as pneumonia and brain swelling.
CDC Confirms 18 U.S. Measles Cases
As of July 7, 2023, the CDC has confirmed 18 measles cases across 11 U.S. states.
Fourteen of those cases (88%) were associated with international travel, mostly among unvaccinated Americans.
This underscores that foreign trips create extra risk of measles exposure and infection.
CDC Urges Travelers to Get MMR Vaccine Before Departing
To prevent measles infection and spread, the CDC advises all U.S. residents to ensure they are up-to-date on MMR vaccination, especially prior to any international travel.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended to provide maximum protection against measles.
The CDC encourages getting fully vaccinated at least two weeks before departing on international trips. Infants under one year old require special dosing.
The CDC website also provides a helpful tool to assist you in determining if MMR vaccination is necessary for your particular situation.
Tips for Travelers to Prevent Measles
If you’re planning an international trip this summer, here are some steps you can take to minimize the risk of measles:
- Check your MMR vaccination record and confirm you’ve received two doses, or get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before traveling.
- Pack face masks and hand sanitizer, in case you develop cold-like symptoms while abroad. Wearing a mask can reduce transmission.
- Ask your doctor for an extra dose of immune globulin if you’re traveling with an infant under 6 months old who is too young for MMR.
- Avoid close contact with anyone exhibiting symptoms during your trip, and be vigilant for the 3 weeks after you return.
- Monitor destinations for measles outbreaks and avoid high risk areas if possible. Be prepared to cut a trip short if an outbreak emerges.
- Isolate yourself and call your doctor immediately if you develop fever, cough, runny nose or rash after traveling.
Watch For Measles Symptoms For 3 Weeks After Returning
In addition to vaccination, the CDC recommends that travelers monitor themselves for measles symptoms like fever and rash for 21 days after coming back to the U.S.
Anyone who develops symptoms should isolate themselves and notify their healthcare provider immediately.
Early detection and reporting of cases is critical to contain the spread of measles before it turns into an outbreak, especially among vulnerable groups.
The Threat of Measles Goes Beyond Case Counts
While only 18 measles cases have been confirmed in the U.S. so far this year, the highly contagious nature of the virus means complacency is dangerous. Most Americans have not built immunity through vaccination or previous illness.
Given that one infected person can potentially spread measles to 9 or 10 others, imported cases from travelers could quickly spiral out of control. Infants, pregnant women, and immunocompromised groups are especially susceptible to severe complications.
The CDC’s call for vigilance is meant to prevent measles from gaining any foothold in the U.S. population. With global vaccination rates still recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic, the threat remains substantial this summer travel season and beyond.
An ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure when it comes to measles.
