Short Wave
What to Know About The Measles Outbreak
Mar 18, 2025
Maria Godoy, NPR's health correspondent, shares critical insights into the recent measles outbreak, highlighting its extreme contagion—more infectious than even COVID-19. She discusses the alarming decline in vaccination rates contributing to this situation, particularly in West Texas. Godoy outlines symptoms and essential safety measures for communities at risk. The conversation also addresses the vital role of vaccination and the need to counteract misinformation surrounding vaccine safety and prevention.
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Quick takeaways
- The current measles outbreak in the southwestern United States has raised alarms among health officials due to declining vaccination rates in rural areas.
- Vaccination remains the most effective defense against measles, with a 97% effectiveness after two doses, highlighting the urgency for community immunization.
Deep dives
Current Measles Outbreak Overview
The ongoing measles outbreak in the southwestern United States has escalated significantly, with nearly 300 confirmed cases reported, surpassing the total infections recorded in all of 2024. This outbreak originated in West Texas in January and has spread to neighboring states like New Mexico, with cases even reaching as far as Alaska, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky, primarily linked to international travel. Health officials are particularly concerned about the transmission occurring in rural areas with low vaccination rates, which presents a higher risk of further outbreaks. Current efforts to contain the spread focus on vaccination and contact tracing to prevent further local transmission.
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