The measles outbreak in the United States is escalating at an alarming rate. In the last 24 hours (from Monday morning to Tuesday morning), five people died from measles symptoms and 1,357 new patients were identified across the country. This brings the total number of measles cases this year to 5,182.
Surge in Infections
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed this is the worst measles outbreak in the United States since 1991. Approximately 59 percent of those infected are children and adolescents. Of these, 18 percent are under five years old, and 41 percent are between the ages of five and 19.Children Missed in Vaccination Drive
Measles infections were present from the beginning of the year, but initially drew little attention. When the situation spiraled nearly out of control, nationwide vaccination campaigns were launched. However, as many as 40 lakh (4 million) children were missed in those drives. Despite two rounds of mass vaccination, infections have not declined; instead, more than a thousand people are being infected daily.Transmission and Expert Warnings
Measles is highly contagious but preventable through vaccination. Of the 5,182 infected this year, 4,993 contracted the disease through contact with another infected person. Although the United States declared measles eliminated more than two decades ago, infections have risen globally. The spread is particularly pronounced among populations skeptical of vaccines and those deprived of healthcare services.Experts have warned that if vaccination rates drop in any region, thousands could become infected. This nearly forgotten disease is now claiming lives daily, posing a severe threat to public health.