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Measles vaccines and the potential for worldwide eradication of measles
H Cody Meissner1, Peter M Strebel, Walter A Orenstein
1Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Tufts-New England Medical Center, University School of Medicine, 750 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111, USA. cmeissner@tufts-nemc.org
Abstract:
The annual number of reported measles cases in the United States has declined from between 3 million and 4 million in the prevaccine era to <100 cases in association with the highest recorded immunization rates in history. Because of continued importation of measles into the United States, young children who are not vaccinated appropriately may experience more than a 60-fold increase in risk of disease. Unsubstantiated claims suggesting an association between measles vaccine and neurologic disorders have led to reduced vaccine use and a resurgence of measles in countries where immunization rates have declined below the level needed to maintain herd immunity. To address the possibility of worldwide control of measles, efforts to ensure high immunization rates among people in both developed and developing countries must be sustained.
Insights
Measles cases drastically decreased due to high vaccination rates. Maintaining immunization is crucial to prevent resurgence from imported cases and combat misinformation.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Measles cases declined from millions to under 100 annually in the U.S. post-vaccine introduction.
- High immunization rates historically correlate with this significant reduction in measles incidence.
- Unsubstantiated claims linking measles vaccine to neurologic disorders have fueled vaccine hesitancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of vaccination on measles incidence.
- To highlight the risks associated with declining immunization rates.
- To emphasize the need for sustained global vaccination efforts.
Main Methods:
- Historical data analysis of measles cases and immunization rates.
- Risk assessment for unvaccinated populations.
- Review of factors contributing to measles resurgence.
Main Results:
- Vaccination has led to a dramatic decrease in measles cases in the United States.
- Unvaccinated children face a significantly higher risk of measles infection due to imported cases.
- Declining immunization rates below herd immunity thresholds correlate with measles outbreaks.
Conclusions:
- Sustaining high immunization rates is essential for measles control and prevention of outbreaks.
- Combating misinformation regarding vaccine safety is critical for public health.
- Global efforts are necessary to ensure widespread measles vaccine coverage.
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