WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - The Department of Health in Massachusetts made an announcement on Thursday confirming that an adult in Worcester County has tested positive for measles.
This case marks the first confirmed instance of measles in a Massachusetts resident since early 2020. The individual had recently returned from international travel and received the diagnosis in early July. It was not disclosed whether the person was vaccinated against measles.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) has taken proactive measures by reaching out to all individuals who may have been exposed to the resident with measles. Dr. Robbie Goldstein, the Public Health Commissioner, highlighted the global rise in measles prevalence, including in the United States and nearby states in New England. He emphasized that vaccination is the most effective means of protection against measles.
The DPH issued a cautionary statement regarding significant measles outbreaks in Europe and other parts of the world. They noted that many cases in the United States are linked to recent international travel. In June, a warning was issued about potential exposure in Massachusetts after an infected traveler from Amsterdam took a bus from New Hampshire to Boston.
As of July 11, 2024, the CDC reported 167 measles cases in the U.S., with 84% of cases being unvaccinated or having an unknown vaccination status. Nearly half of the reported cases in 2024 were in children under 5 years old, with approximately half of those infected requiring hospitalization.
The measles virus is highly contagious and spreads through coughing and sneezing. The CDC warns that the virus is so contagious that up to 90% of non-immune individuals close to someone with measles may become infected. In light of this, the DPH has encouraged anyone unsure of their measles vaccination status to consult with their healthcare provider to receive at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.
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