Measles - A Surprising Comeback

QUINCY — Once thought to be a thing of the past in the U.S., measles is making a shocking comeback. After being declared eradicated 25 years ago, this highly contagious virus is seeing a troubling rise across the nation, with cases inching closer to local communities in Adams and Marion County, Missouri.

Devastating Outbreak in Texas

The latest outbreak began in January within a largely unvaccinated Mennonite community in Texas. By February, over 100 cases were reported, leading to 18 hospitalizations and sadly, the death of an unvaccinated child. The spread didn’t stop there; New Mexico was also affected, and another tragic loss occurred in Texas with the death of another unvaccinated child in April.

Rising Numbers and Worrisome Trends

As of mid-May, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) confirmed 1,024 measles cases in the U.S., which is more than triple the cases reported in the entirety of 2024. A staggering 96% of these infections are among unvaccinated individuals, with nearly 70% of cases occurring in those aged 19 and younger.

Understanding Measles and Its Dangers

So, what’s the big deal about measles? Firstly, measles is incredibly contagious; it can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. The CDC notes that if someone inhales just a small amount of the virus, roughly 90% of susceptible individuals will become infected. This is a far greater risk than many other diseases.

Initial symptoms of measles typically surface within a week or two after exposure, beginning with a high fever, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a signature rash. Complications may arise in 10-40% of cases, especially among those who are immunocompromised, elderly, or very young. These complications can include pneumonia, diarrhea, and in very rare cases, fatal neurological conditions.

Are We Ready for an Outbreak?

Despite not facing measles in over 30 years, local healthcare providers assure that they are prepared for a possible outbreak. However, past experiences with other viral surges, such as COVID-19, show that facilities can quickly become overwhelmed. As expert Tonya Stamper pointed out, the sheer volume of unvaccinated patients can put a tremendous strain on healthcare systems.

Vaccination: The Best Defense