An outbreak of measles in West Texas and New Mexico has grown to more than 315 cases and resulted in two deaths, including an unvaccinated child.
Measles was considered eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, thanks to the highly effective MMR vaccine and high vaccination rates. But because measles is so contagious, at least 95% of a community must be vaccinated to prevent outbreaks, says Bill Moss, a professor in epidemiology and executive director of the International Vaccine Access Center.
In the March 7 episode of Public Health On Call, Moss spoke with Lindsay Smith Rogers about how the outbreak is growing, the challenges to controlling it, and how the average person can know whether they're at risk of contracting measles. He also clarifies the role vitamin A can play in treating—but not preventing—measles and why it is not a replacement for vaccination.
What is the latest on the outbreak in the Southwest U.S.?
The state of Texas has been really good about updating its Health Services website with information about the outbreak
