By Karla Sullivan
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, latest press release, they estimate that vaccinations will prevent more than 21 million hospitalizations and 732,000 deaths among children born in the last 20 years. Despite the U.S. immunization program’s success, according to CDC officials, 129 people in the U.S. have been reported to have measles this year in 13 outbreaks, as of April 18.
The Vaccines for Children’s program was established to provide vaccines at no cost to families who are unable to pay. This was established twenty years ago. “Thanks to the VFC program, children in our country are no longer at significant risk from diseases that once killed thousands each year,” said CDC Director Tom Frieden, M.D., M.P.H.
However, in 2013, 189 Americans were reported having measles. In 2011, 220 people in the US had measles which has been the highest number in the US since 1996. The CDC comments that 34 people were infected in other countries “Current outbreaks of measles in the U.S. serve as a reminder that these diseases are only a plane ride away. Borders can’t stop measles, but vaccination can.” Frieden suggests.
Measles is a very contagious infection also called rubeola. Eventually a rash occurs and infected individuals develop a cough. Generally, measles is accompanied with a high fever. Measles is usually more severe in adults than children. However, in infants, measles can be life threatening. One infant spiked a 106 fever and had to be hospitalized according to the CDC. Almost anyone exposed to measles will get it if they have not been vaccinated. Home care, plenty of fluids, rest,and vitamin A supplements can help recover from the illness once diagnosed. Usually, those who contract measles feel better in approximately two weeks.
According to Vaccines.gov, measle cases in the U.S. are at a 15-year high, due largely to international travel. Make sure you receive a measles vaccine if you have not been vaccinated. Talk to your healthcare adviser about where you can receive a vaccine in your community especially if traveling out of the country.
