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Measles: taking steps forward to prevent going backwards
Kriti Gupta1, Michelle Chen2, Joshua Rocker3
1Department of Pediatrics.
Purpose Of Review:
The measles vaccine, first introduced in 1963, directly led to a dramatic decrease in the incidence of the disease. Measles transitioned from being a common childhood disease, affecting approximately three to four million children annually, to being eradicated in the United States in 2000. What was once an astounding victory for modern medicine, however, has recently seen a dramatic reversal in fortune, with a resurgence of measles cases in the United States. Hence, it merits careful discussion.
Recent Findings:
The United States has seen more measles cases in 2019 than in any prior year in the past 30 years. These outbreaks are because of many factors but a significant cause is the increase in vaccine refusal within sub-populations in America. This finding indicates that the current approach that healthcare workers take with families towards MMR vaccination could be more effective.
Summary:
This article aims to educate the reader about the measles virus and its clinical presentation, the MMR vaccine and its overwhelming success, and the concerning current national and international trends in measles outbreaks. Importantly, we focus on positions proposed by hesitant vaccinators and determine how medical providers can participate in productive conversation about vaccination to better gain trust and guide improved shared clinical decision-making.
Insights
Measles cases are rising due to vaccine refusal, reversing decades of progress. Healthcare providers need improved communication strategies to address vaccine hesitancy and ensure effective measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Measles was nearly eradicated in the US by 2000 due to widespread vaccination.
- A resurgence of measles cases is occurring, with 2019 marking a 30-year high.
- Increased vaccine refusal in certain populations is a significant driver of these outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the measles virus, its clinical presentation, and the success of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.
- To examine current national and international measles outbreak trends.
- To explore strategies for healthcare providers to engage with vaccine-hesitant individuals and improve shared decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of measles epidemiology and vaccine effectiveness.
- Analysis of trends in measles outbreaks and vaccination rates.
- Exploration of communication strategies for addressing vaccine hesitancy.
Main Results:
- The MMR vaccine has been highly successful in reducing measles incidence.
- Measles outbreaks are increasing, linked to decreased vaccination rates and vaccine refusal.
- Effective communication is crucial for building trust and encouraging vaccination.
Conclusions:
- The resurgence of measles highlights the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage.
- Addressing vaccine hesitancy requires empathetic and informed dialogue between healthcare providers and families.
- Strengthening public health efforts and vaccination programs is essential to prevent future outbreaks.
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