NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The World Health Organization issued a warning about the rapid spread of measles across the globe, reporting a 79 percent increase in cases in 2022. The number of deaths related to measles has also increased by 43 percent, with more than 306,000 cases reported.
This resurgence of measles comes despite the disease being declared eradicated in the U.S. over 20 years ago. Health experts attribute the spike in cases to declining vaccination rates, which are jeopardizing herd immunity. Herd immunity against measles requires 98 percent of the population to be vaccinated.
The highly contagious nature of measles poses a significant risk, as the disease can be easily transmitted through the air. “If I had measles and I coughed and it’s now in the air, it can stay in the air for like 30 minutes,” said Senior Medical Director of Infection Prevention at UC Health, Dr. Michelle Barron. “So you come along in the grocery line after I do, you’re not vaccinated, and then the measles is still hanging out in the air, 30 minutes, an hour later. And then you breathe it in and can get it. And so the number of people for the attack rate can be much higher than most of the things we’re used to where you’ve got to be with someone.”
Although no cases of measles have been reported in Tennessee from 2020 to 2022, a recent case was confirmed from someone who traveled through the Northern Kentucky International Airport, sparking concerns about potential exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend children receive their first dose of the measles vaccine between 12 to 15 months old. In Nashville, the vaccine is available at the Lentz Public Health Center on Charlotte Ave. on weekdays from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.
This recent increase in measles cases has prompted heightened vigilance in several areas, notably an elementary school in Florida where four cases of measles have been confirmed. The urgency of the situation underscores the importance of vaccination to prevent the further spread of the disease.
The reemergence of measles serves as a stark reminder of the critical role vaccination plays in safeguarding public health. As the global community continues to combat the spread of infectious diseases, ensuring access to vaccines and promoting vaccination efforts remains paramount.