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Measles--United States, first 26 weeks, 1994
Abstract:
As of July 2, 1994 (week 26), local and state health departments in 31 states had reported a provisional total of 730 measles cases* to CDC for 1994 (1) (Figure 1). This represents a greater than fourfold increase over the historic low of 167 cases reported by 18 states during the same period in 1993. In addition, 250 cases were reported in 1994 for the U.S. territories of Guam (211) and the commonwealths of the Northern Mariana Islands (26) and Puerto Rico (13). This report summarizes the epidemiologic characteristics of measles cases reported in the United States for the first 26 weeks of 1994.
Insights
Measles cases in the US surged over fourfold in early 1994 compared to 1993. Health departments reported 730 measles cases by July 1994, a significant public health concern.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Infectious Disease Surveillance
Background:
- Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious viral illness.
- Despite effective vaccines, measles outbreaks can occur due to waning immunity or unvaccinated populations.
- Maintaining low measles incidence is a public health goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the epidemiologic characteristics of measles cases reported in the United States during the first 26 weeks of 1994.
- To assess the increase in measles cases compared to the previous year.
Main Methods:
- Data collection through provisional reporting from local and state health departments.
- Analysis of reported measles cases from US states and territories.
- Comparison of case counts for the first 26 weeks of 1994 versus 1993.
Main Results:
- A provisional total of 730 measles cases were reported by 31 states to the CDC by July 2, 1994.
- This represents a greater than fourfold increase compared to 167 cases reported during the same period in 1993.
- An additional 250 cases were reported from US territories, including Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico.
Conclusions:
- The reported measles cases indicate a significant resurgence of the disease in the US during early 1994.
- The data highlights the need for continued surveillance and vaccination efforts to prevent widespread outbreaks.