Michigan Faces First Measles Outbreak in 5 Years

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the state has reported its first measles epidemic since 2019. An epidemic is defined as three or more related cases.

According to an MDHHS press release, three cases have been confirmed in Montcalm County.

According to MDHHS data, almost 25% of Montcalm County children under three have not yet received their first dose of the MMR vaccine. The state reports seven cases this year, including those who were infected during the outbreak.

At least five states have confirmed measles cases, including Texas, New Mexico, Ohio, Indiana, and Kansas.

At least 24 states have reported at least 700 cases of measles. This is the highest number of cases since 2019, when there were 1,274 reported cases. Texas is the largest state with 560 cases, two of which were fatal.

The measles is among the most contagious illnesses known to mankind. According to the CDC, just one patient infected can spread measles to up to 9 out of 10 close contacts who are susceptible.

Health officials are urging those who have not been vaccinated yet to get the MMR vaccine.

CDC recommends two doses of vaccine, one at 12-15 months and another between 4 and 6. Two doses of the vaccine are 97% effective in preventing measles. Adults who have been vaccinated do not need boosters in most cases.

According to the CDC’s estimates, between 400 and 500 people died each year in the decade before 1963 when the measles vaccination became available.