NEED TO KNOW
- The U.S. Centers for Disease Control suggests that all international travelers receive measles vaccinations due to an ongoing increase in cases.
- The agency advises those not fully vaccinated to think about “postponing their trip,” and recommends vaccinations for anyone unsure of their immunity prior to traveling internationally.
- This guidance follows three measles cases tied to an international flight arriving in Denver.
In light of a recent measles outbreak linked to a flight that landed in Denver, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control has made a strong recommendation: “all international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles.”
The CDC emphasizes that travelers should be fully vaccinated at least two weeks before their departure and suggests postponing their travel if unable to do so.
A Turkish Airlines flight that arrived in Denver on May 13 is connected to this outbreak, which has made three people ill, including a child. This incident highlights an ongoing issue of measles spreading through air travel: a spokesperson from the CDC noted that there have been 62 cases associated with international travel just this year.
The CDC highlights that “most individuals who introduce measles into the United States are unvaccinated residents who contract the virus overseas.”
Importantly, the CDC warns that the threat of contracting measles extends beyond just airplanes. Travelers can be exposed at various locations, during their entire trip, such as airports, crowded public transportation, tourist sites, and large gatherings. For instance, in March, there was an exposure reported on an Amtrak train to Washington, D.C.
The agency reiterates the importance of the 2-dose measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine for all travelers, beginning as early as 6 months of age.
This alert from the CDC comes amid a notable surge in measles exposure reports within the U.S. In May, an individual attended a concert while infectious, which was linked to the singer Shakira, and Kansas is reportedly facing outbreaks of both tuberculosis and measles. Meanwhile, there’s an ongoing measles outbreak affecting regions in Texas and New Mexico that has resulted in three fatalities.
“Measles isn’t just a rash,” the CDC points out. Along with the typical symptoms, it can result in high fever, cough, and runny nose, potentially causing pneumonia and swelling of the brain, leading to serious complications such as hearing loss or cognitive issues.
It’s worth noting that extensive research has established the safety of vaccines, with no scientific evidence linking vaccines to autism according to the Centers for Disease Control.
