A child dies from measles in Wisconsin, the first death in the state since 1990
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (WDHS) has recorded 431 measles cases in 13 counties so far this year
Health authorities confirmed the death of a baby due to measles in Wisconsin , recording the first death linked to the disease in the state since 1990 . The incident comes amid a critical resurgence of the disease in the United States.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (WDHS) has recorded 431 measles cases in 13 counties so far this year . Authorities detailed that 428 of these infections correspond to unvaccinated people.
In addition, the country is facing one of its worst outbreaks in decades, totaling more than 4,800 cases in 47 states by the end of October . This same week, the state of New York also reported its first measles death in 30 years.
Skepticism toward vaccines has caused different outbreaks
Although measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000, growing vaccine skepticism has led to the return of local outbreaks. Because of this, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is considering meeting to assess whether the country should lose that public health distinction.
Experts reiterate that two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine offer effectiveness close to 97% and are the main tool for preventing serious complications such as pneumonia or brain inflammation.
The recommended vaccination schedule for the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine (MMR: Measles, Rubella, and Mumps) is mainly organized into two doses to ensure long-term immunity. Depending on the official schedule of the country or region, the timing varies slightly.
In the case of the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend a first dose between 12 and 15 months of age and a second dose between 4 and 6 years of age .
