How a West Texas Outbreak Threatens Measles Elimination Status

Measles was technically “eliminated” in the U.S. in 2000 thanks to high measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccination rates. While prior outbreaks have made headlines, a slew of cases in West Texas is more than just newsworthy—it could cause the U.S. to lose elimination status. Associate health and medicine editor Lauren Young explains what elimination means, why measles cases are rising and how to prevent further transmission.

Recommended reading:

Measles Was ‘Eliminated’ in the U.S. in 2000. The Current Outbreak May Change That 

Five Reasons Measles Outbreaks Are Worse Than You Think—And Why Vaccination Matters 

How to Check If You’re Immune to Measles 

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Science Quickly is produced by Rachel Feltman, Fonda Mwangi, Kelso Harper, Naeem Amarsy and Jeff DelViscio. This episode was hosted by Rachel Feltman with guest Lauren Young. Our show is edited by Alex Sugiura with fact-checking by Shayna Posses and Aaron Shattuck. The theme music was composed by Dominic Smith.

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