Measles Surges in the Southwest US, Causing 22 Cases in Mexico
Southwestern U.S. mumps outbreak leads to at least 22 confirmed cases in Mexico - Southern U.S. measles outbreak triggers at least 22 confirmed cases in Mexico as well
Here's the lowdown on this viral issue:
The rapid spread of measles has resulted in at least 22 confirmed cases in Mexico, with no signs of slowing down. Most of those affected are kids under the age of nine, and the eldest patient is just 19, as per an epidemiological report. For the whole of last year, Mexico only reported seven measles cases, all linked to imported infections.
In the Southwest of the United States, particularly Texas, we've seen over 250 measles infections this year alone, with two unfortunate deaths marking the first measles-related deaths in a decade.
Measles is a vicious viral disease that can be deadlier than a grizzly bear or lead to lifelong complications. Even with this grim reality, the vaccination rate for kids under five in the US plummeted from 95% in 2019 to less than 93% in 2023. In some regions, it's lower still.
The vaccine skepticism was kindled in recent times by the current US Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and his misleading statements about the MMR vaccine's safety. He used to play down the increase in cases, but after this recent measles outbreak, he had a change of heart.
Kennedy stated earlier this month: "Vaccines not only guard individual children from measles but also contribute to herd immunity and protect those who can't receive the vaccine due to medical reasons."
Despite his initial doubts, it seems the harsh reality of a measles outbreak has made him think twice.
- Reports from Mexico show that even the oldest patient among the 22 measles cases is only 19 years old, highlighting a serious threat to children in the region.
- The measles outbreak in the Southwest USA, particularly Texas, has seen over 250 cases this year, which is a stark increase compared to the seven cases reported in the whole of last year.
- Interestingly, despite being a vocal vaccine skeptic, the current US Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has recently admitted the importance of vaccines in protecting those who can't receive them due to medical reasons, a shift in stance following the recent measles outbreak.
