Health Watch: Measles makes a comeback and pathologists warn of rising risk
ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) - Measles, one of the most contagious viruses in the world, is making a comeback, and Alaska health officials are urging residents to stay vigilant.
The disease, which spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, was once considered eliminated in the U.S., but with vaccination rates declining and global travel increasing, cases are reemerging, posing serious risks, especially for infants, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
The latest data showed a recent outbreak in West Texas and New Mexico had increased to over 250 cases.
According to the Alaska Department of Health, one case of measles was reported in the state in January. The patient was an unvaccinated adult who had recently traveled overseas before returning to Alaska and being hospitalized in Homer.
While this is not yet considered an outbreak, experts warn that measles is highly transmissible. While measles isn’t currently spreading on a global scale like COVID-19, health experts stress the importance of community awareness and prevention.
“The vaccine uses a weakened form of the virus that still is able to replicate, and so certain individuals — especially those who may be receiving chemotherapy, those who have undergone transplants — can’t receive these vaccines and it’s important that we have the community vaccinated against this because we need about 95% vaccine coverage to make sure that measles can’t spread because of how transmissible it is,” said Dr. Ben Bradley, the medical director of the Department of Pathology at the University of Utah.
Early detection is key to preventing an outbreak. If you or a family member experience symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash, health officials recommend calling your healthcare provider or local public health center immediately.
To prevent further spread, patients should call ahead before visiting a doctor’s office, clinic, or school.
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