Measles in Children

Pediatric Annals
|September 13, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Measles is re-emerging in the U.S. due to lower vaccination rates and increased travel. Healthcare providers must be prepared to diagnose measles and educate patients on prevention and the measles vaccine.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Measles, once rare in the U.S., is now re-emerging.
  • Decreased vaccination rates and increased global travel contribute to measles resurgence.
  • Public resistance to vaccines necessitates provider education.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To re-familiarize healthcare providers with measles diagnosis and prevention.
  • To equip providers to address patient concerns regarding the measles vaccine.
  • To support providers in educating communities about measles and vaccination.

Main Methods:

  • Review of measles epidemiology and clinical presentation.
  • Discussion of vaccination efficacy, safety, and public concerns.
  • Guidance for healthcare providers on patient education strategies.

Main Results:

  • Measles outbreaks are increasing due to reduced herd immunity.
  • Vaccine hesitancy poses a significant challenge to disease control.
  • Informed providers are crucial for effective public health communication.

Conclusions:

  • Healthcare providers need updated knowledge on measles for accurate diagnosis and patient counseling.
  • Addressing vaccine hesitancy with evidence-based information is essential.
  • Community education by informed providers can help mitigate measles outbreaks.