WHO Officials Meet to Review U.S. Measles-Free Status
Published
Officials from the World Health Organization (WHO) have met to decide whether the United States should lose its measles-free status. The United States was declared free of measles, meaning the disease was no longer spreading continuously within the country, but health experts are now concerned about rising cases. The review is part of a regional process that looks at how well countries control the disease.
Measles is a very contagious viral illness. It spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and it can cause serious complications, especially in young children. The best protection is the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is given in two doses. Health officials say that vaccination rates in some communities have dropped in recent years, which has made it easier for outbreaks to start and spread.
If the WHO decides that measles has been spreading continuously in the United States for more than 12 months, the country could lose its measles-elimination status. Losing this status would not close schools or limit travel, but it would be a significant public health signal. Health officials across the country continue to encourage parents to check their children's vaccination records and to talk with doctors about any questions. The final decision will depend on the review of the available data.
Sources: NBC News
More United States news
- SMX Highlights American Innovation in the Race to Advance Artificial Intelligence
- Experts Warn of Growing Security Threats from Iran-Aligned Groups After Regional War
- Fong Introduces New Bill to Strengthen the STEM Workforce Pipeline
- U.S. Ambassador to Namibia Joins Trade and Diplomacy Talks Across Three Continents
- What US Manufacturing Could Learn from China's Industrial Policy
- FBI Seizes More Than $1.2 Billion in Cryptocurrency Stolen from Binance
- Roselyn Sánchez Reflects on Hosting the Latin GRAMMYs for the 10th Time
- Darth Vader's Lightsaber from Famous Duel Sells for Nearly $5 Million