Measles Makes a Comeback: What's Happening in the US?

South Carolina: A Rapidly Worsening Situation

• New Cases: 27 more people infected in recent weeks.
• Total Cases: 111 in just two months.
• Quarantine: Over 250 individuals, including schoolchildren, isolated.
• Repeat Quarantines: Some individuals quarantined for the second time.
• Origin: Outbreak began at a church in Inman, spreading rapidly.

Utah and Arizona: A Parallel Crisis

• Duration: Outbreak since August.
• Hardest Hit Areas: Colorado City and Hildale.
• Utah: 115 cases this year.
• Arizona: 176 cases this year.

A Nationwide and Continental Concern

• Historical Context: Measles considered eliminated in the U.S. since 2000.
• Current Cases: Approaching 2,000 nationwide.
• International Status: Canada and the Americas have lost their measles-free status.
• Potential Impact: The U.S. could lose its measles-free status if the outbreak continues for a year.

Root Cause: Declining Vaccination Rates

• Expert Opinion: Fewer children are being vaccinated.
• Vaccine Efficacy: The measles vaccine is safe and effective.
• Parental Hesitation: Some parents are choosing not to vaccinate their children, leading to outbreaks.