Introduction

2024 is shaping up to be a critical year for the measles virus. Current data shows that the number of measles cases diagnosed in the United States during the first two months of this year has nearly exceeded the total cases reported in 2023.

Rising Measles Cases

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a total of 41 measles cases in January and February 2024, compared to the 58 cases reported in the whole of 2023.

By this time last year, only three cases of measles had been reported, highlighting the concerning increase in cases this year.

Sixteen states in the US have confirmed cases as of February 29, 2024. These states include: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York City, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.

Florida currently has the largest outbreak with 10 reported cases, six of which are associated with an elementary school in Broward County.

The recent outbreaks are largely attributed to the declining measles vaccination rates for the third consecutive year.

According to the CDC, the majority of the measles cases were among unvaccinated children and adolescents, demonstrating the importance of measles-containing vaccines (MMR or MMRV) for eligible individuals.

Covid-19 Impact and Missed Vaccinations

The CDC reported that over 61 million doses of the MMR or MMRV vaccine were postponed or missed between 2020 and 2022 due to delays caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

The measles outbreak in 2024 raises concerns about the possible loss of measles elimination status in the United States. If the outbreak continues for a year or more, the country could lose its elimination status.

Expert Concerns

John Vertefeuille, director of CDC’s Global Immunization Division, expressed concern over the rising measles outbreaks and deaths. He emphasized the risk posed by measles cases anywhere, urging urgent and targeted efforts to prevent the further spread of the disease and related deaths.