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Measles outbreak in a boarding school--Pennsylvania, 2003

    MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report
    |April 16, 2004
    PubMed

    Insights

    Measles outbreaks, though rare in the US, can occur from imported cases. High vaccination rates with two doses of measles-containing vaccine (MCV) effectively limited a 2003 school outbreak, highlighting vaccination

    Area of Science:

    • Epidemiology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Public Health

    Background:

    • Measles is not endemic in the U.S. since 1997, but imported cases can cause outbreaks.
    • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigated a significant school measles outbreak in 2003.
    • This outbreak was the largest since 1998, involving cases in Pennsylvania and New York City.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To summarize the findings of the 2003 measles outbreak investigation.
    • To assess the effectiveness of vaccination in controlling the outbreak.
    • To provide recommendations for preventing future measles transmission.

    Main Methods:

    • Investigated a measles outbreak involving 11 laboratory-confirmed cases.
    • Conducted epidemiological analysis to trace the source and spread of the infection.
    • Assessed vaccination status among affected individuals and the school population.

    Main Results:

    • The outbreak involved nine cases in a Pennsylvania boarding school and two linked cases in New York City.
    • Investigation confirmed measles importation as the source of the outbreak.
    • High coverage with two doses of measles-containing vaccine (MCV) was effective in limiting the outbreak's size.

    Conclusions:

    • Measles continues to be imported into the United States, posing a risk for outbreaks.
    • High vaccination coverage (2 doses of MCV) is crucial for preventing and controlling measles outbreaks in schools.
    • Healthcare providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for measles, particularly in patients with recent travel history.

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