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Measles: What You Need to Know to Protect Your Child

By Stephen WoodMD, FAAP

Measles is Back: Why Vaccination is More Important Than Ever

Measles, once nearly eliminated in the U.S. thanks to widespread vaccination, is making a troubling comeback. Recent outbreaks in Texas and other states have highlighted the importance of measles vaccination in preventing the spread of this highly contagious and potentially severe disease.

Before the introduction of the measles vaccine, half of all child deaths from infectious diseases in the U.S. were caused by measles. Today, despite the vaccine’s proven effectiveness, cases are on the rise, and tragically, the country has seen its first measles-related death in over a decade.

Measles spreads easily—so much so that if an infected person enters a room, the virus can linger in the air for up to two hours, putting unvaccinated individuals at a 90% risk of contracting the disease. Among those infected, 20% require hospitalization, and for every 1,000 cases, one to two children may die.

Protect Your Child and Community with the MMR Vaccine

The best defense against measles is vaccination. The measles vaccine, given as part of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, is administered in two doses—first at one year of age and again at four years. This two-dose series provides 97% protection against the virus. If your child has received both doses, they are well protected.

If you’re unsure about your child’s vaccination status or if they’ve missed a dose, now is the time to act. Contact your healthcare provider to ensure your child is up to date on their measles vaccinations. By vaccinating, you’re not only protecting your child but also helping prevent the spread of measles in the community.

For more information or to schedule a vaccination, reach out to your healthcare provider today.

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