A concerning influx of measles in the United States is a reminder of the need to restore public trust in vaccines. Vaccines and broader preventive healthcare are critical for combating illnesses and diseases. When trust in these measures diminishes, preventable diseases rise, which is increasingly evident in part of the U.S.
As of May 16, 2024, 139 measles cases have been reported across 21 jurisdictions. This year has seen 10 outbreaks, 70% of the cases being outbreak-associated. In comparison, 2023 had four outbreaks, with 48% of the cases linked to outbreaks. The current cases involve many young children, with 45% under five years old, 22% aged 5–19, and 32% aged 20 and older. The vaccination status of the infected shows that 82% were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status, 13% had received one dose of the MMR vaccine, and 6% had received two doses.
Globally, The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 40 times more cases across 41 European countries in 2023 compared to 2022. Cases nearly doubled from 2022 to 2023, with 2024 figures projected to be even worse.
Understanding the Measles Resurgence
Measles is a highly infectious viral disease that can lead to severe health complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death. The United States declared measles eliminated in 2000, thanks to the widespread use of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. However, the recent outbreaks reveal gaps in vaccine coverage, often linked to misinformation and skepticism about vaccines.
Several factors contribute to the current situation:
- Misinformation and Disinformation: The increase of false information about vaccines, particularly through social media, has significantly fueled vaccine hesitancy. Misleading claims about vaccine safety and efficacy have sown doubt and fear, deterring some parents from vaccinating their children.
- Complacency: Due to the past success of vaccination programs, many people have forgotten the dangers of vaccine-preventable diseases. This complacency leads to lower vaccination rates, creating pockets where outbreaks can occur.
- Distrust in Institutions: A growing distrust in government and health institutions has made some individuals skeptical of public health recommendations, including vaccinations. Political polarization and varying opinions on health regulations can exacerbate this distrust.
Strategies to Rebuild Trust
Restoring public confidence in vaccination is a complex task. However, various strategies have been proposed to address vaccine hesitancy and concerns involving medical associations, the pharmaceutical industry, and local, national, and international health authorities. Key strategies include providing valid information transparently, emphasizing the scientific evaluation and safety protocols surrounding vaccines, and engaging in international collaborations to monitor and address vaccine confidence issues. Additionally, leveraging media, including social media, to disseminate accurate information and counter misinformation is crucial. Improving healthcare provider preparedness through training on vaccine-related knowledge and communication skills and providing support and resources is essential in building trustful relationships with patients and parents.
The Broader Impact of Vaccines
Vaccination serves dual purposes; it protects individuals from infectious diseases while allowing communities to create immunity. As mentioned above, 70% of the measles cases found this year were outbreak-associated. By staying informed about what’s happening in your community and keeping up with an immunization schedule, people can extend protection to those who cannot be vaccinated and help alleviate pressure on medical facilities.
With spring in full swing and summer right around the corner, Health officials at the CDC and American Medical Association are urging individuals and their families to vaccinate against measles and help eliminate this disease once again.
Source
CDC: Measle Cases and Outbreaks
National Library of Medicine: Vaccine confidence: the keys to restoring trust
Pew Research Center: Americans’ Trust in Scientists, Positive Views of Science Continue to Decline
