BOSTON — Public health officials are urging parents and providers to make sure young children are up-to-date on the measles vaccine before the busy travel season.
In a light Significant increase in measles cases In the United States and around the world, the CDC has released Health advice It says all children 12 months and older in the U.S. should be up-to-date on their measles, mumps and rubella or MMR vaccine. Also, children 6 months of age or older traveling abroad should also be vaccinated.
Measles is highly contagious. In fact, according to the CDC, a person with measles can infect 9 out of 10 unvaccinated close contacts. MMR vaccines, usually given between 12 months and 4 years of age, are incredibly safe and effective, with one dose 93% effective against measles and two doses 97% effective.
But the country and pockets of the world with declining vaccination rates are experiencing outbreaks of this highly preventable and dangerous disease.
