Watch for measles, UK doctors told, as vaccine rate dips

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Health Officials Call For Vigilance, Immunization In Measles Resurgence

CHARLEVOIX — Michigan reported its first confirmed case of measles since 2019 in February, and by April 10 there had been five documented measles cases so far this year.

This uptick in measles is not unique to Michigan alone. Across the United States, 41 cases have been reported in 2024 across 16 states, as reported by Michigan.Gov.

Cases of measles across the U.S. As of April 11, 2024.

Dr. Joshua Meyerson, medical director of the Health Department of Northwest Michigan, has been vocal about the necessity of vaccinations in preventing measles outbreaks. He underscored the highly contagious nature of the disease and emphasized the need for robust immunization rates to curb sustained transmission within communities.

"Measles is not to be taken lightly — it's a highly contagious and serious illness with a high hospitalization rate and mortality toll," Meyerson said.

More: Detroit child with measles exposed others at Children's Hospital, urgent care, pharmacy

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Meyerson added that Northern Michigan has not had any reported measles cases this year, but said it is important to remain vigilant as measles transmission thrives in locations with subpar immunization rates.

"We still have good immunization rates in this country, much better than in some of the developed European countries that are having sustained outbreaks," he said. "But the concern is the potential. If you have a community that has lower rates, where you're under 90 percent, you can have sustained transmission."

Despite strong immunization rates in the region, Meyerson noted a concerning downtrend since the onset of the pandemic. He also pointed to the effectiveness of the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which has a 98-99 percent lifetime immunity with the two doses given to children, and stressed the importance of adhering to measles immunization schedules to bolster community-wide immunity. Children are given their first dose at one year of age and the second between four to six years of age.

Vials of measles, mumps and rubella vaccine are displayed on a counter at a Walgreens Pharmacy on Jan. 26, 2015 in Mill Valley, California.

Measles is known for its contagiousness and spreads readily through the air, Meyerson said.

"Measles is the most contagious virus," he said. "About one to three people out of about 1,000 will die. And that's a fairly low percentage, but not when it's highly contagious. It's a very serious illness."

According to a recent Detroit Free Press article, measles is so contagious that 90 percent of unvaccinated people who are exposed to the virus will become infected. About 1 in 5 people who get the measles end up hospitalized, according to the CDC.

Michigan's five cases were in Washtenaw, Oakland and Wayne counties, with several linked to recent international travel.

"It can be very serious, it's very contagious," Meyerson said. "Although, we have not had any cases here, it still exists in other parts of the world. We should remember it's only a plane ride away."

— Contact reporter Annie Doyle at (231) 675-0099 and adoyle@charlevoixcourier.Com

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Health officials call for vigilance, immunization in measles resurgence

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World Immunisation Week 2024: 5 Most Important Vaccines For Infants And Children

Vaccines have been instrumental in preventing numerous infectious diseases, saving millions of lives worldwide. As World Immunisation Week 2024 is observed today, April 24, it's essential to emphasise the importance of vaccination in safeguarding the health and well-being of our children. For infants and children, certain vaccines are particularly crucial in protecting them from potentially life-threatening illnesses.

Ensuring that infants and children receive these essential vaccines according to recommended schedules is vital in protecting their health and the health of the community at large. By prioritising vaccination efforts, we can continue to prevent disease, save lives, and build healthier communities for future generations. Here, we highlight five of the most important vaccines every parent should ensure their child receives.

1. Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine

The MMR vaccine is a combined vaccine that protects against three highly contagious diseases: measles, mumps, and rubella (German measles). Measles, in particular, can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and encephalitis, while mumps can cause deafness and meningitis. Rubella infection during pregnancy can result in congenital rubella syndrome, leading to birth defects in infants. Administering the MMR vaccine provides immunity against these diseases and helps prevent their spread within communities.

2. Polio Vaccine

Polio, caused by the poliovirus, can lead to paralysis and even death. Thanks to widespread vaccination efforts, polio has been nearly eradicated globally. However, the disease still poses a threat in regions where vaccination coverage is insufficient. The oral polio vaccine (OPV) and the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV) are both effective in preventing polio infection. Timely administration of the polio vaccine is crucial in ensuring lifelong immunity against this debilitating disease.

3. Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP) Vaccine

The DTaP vaccine protects against three bacterial infections: diphtheria, tetanus (lockjaw), and pertussis (whooping cough). Diphtheria can lead to severe respiratory problems and heart failure, while tetanus causes muscle stiffness and spasms. Pertussis, especially dangerous in infants, can result in prolonged coughing fits and respiratory complications. The DTaP vaccine is typically administered in a series of doses during infancy and early childhood, providing robust protection against these infectious diseases.

4. Haemophilus Influenzae Type b (Hib) Vaccine

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) is a bacterium responsible for various severe infections, including pneumonia, meningitis, and epiglottitis. Hib infections can be particularly dangerous in young children, often leading to serious complications or even death. The Hib vaccine effectively prevents these infections by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against the bacterium. Including the Hib vaccine in routine immunisation schedules has significantly reduced the incidence of Hib-related diseases worldwide.

5. Hepatitis B Vaccine

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that affects the liver, potentially leading to chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and death. Infants and young children are especially vulnerable to hepatitis B infection if exposed. The hepatitis B vaccine is administered in a series of doses shortly after birth and during infancy, providing long-lasting immunity against the virus. Vaccination against hepatitis B is crucial in preventing transmission from mother to child and reducing the overall burden of this infectious disease.

ALSO READ: World Immunisation Week 2024: Date, theme, history, significance and all you need to know

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