First case of measles confirmed in South Dakota this year; Center for Disease Control & Prevention adjusts travel advice
** Updated Article: **
Hear this, folks! South Dakota's dropped a bombshell - they've got their first case of measles this year, making them the 33rd state in the union to face this nasty bugger. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a staggering 1,088 cases nationwide so far this year.
A recent traveler, who'd been overseas, tested positive for measles in Meade County, South Dakota, as per the South Dakota Department of Health. This comes with a warning from federal officials urging all Americans to get vaccinated against measles before hopping on a plane. The CDC recently updated its guidance, now recommending vaccination for those heading to countries with ongoing measles outbreaks, not just while traveling.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is quite the game-changer. It's part of the regular immunization schedule and boasts an effectiveness rate of up to 97% after two doses, according to the CDC. Adults without immunity through vaccination or previous infection should also get vaccinated, the agency noted.
It's been a rough ride this year, with at least 62 people getting measles while taking flights. According to a CDC spokesperson, there's been only one instance of measles transmission during air travel. In South Dakota, the infected individual visited two medical centers, potentially exposing others to the virus.
Health officials warn that measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air from an infected person. Those without immunity, including those who haven't been vaccinated or had measles in the past, are at a high risk if they come into contact with an infected person. Symptoms of measles usually appear in two stages - a runny nose, cough, slight fever, red, sensitive eyes, and a fever spiking each day mark stage one. Stage two kicks in between three and seven days later, bringing a soaring temperature of 103 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit and a red, blotchy rash that lasts between four to seven days, starting on the face and spreading to the rest of the body.
State health officials emphasize that the measles vaccine is the best defense against infection. Individuals are considered immune if they:
- Were born before 1957.
- Received one adult dose of the MMR vaccine.
- Got two doses of the MMR vaccine as a child or high-risk adult.
- Have measles antibodies tested at a lab.
- Had a previous measles infection confirmed by a lab test.
The MMR vaccine is typically administered at 12 to 15 months of age, with a second dose at four to six years. For international travel with children, the MMR vaccine can be given as early as six months of age. For more information on measles, check out the South Dakota Department of Health's website, where you'll find fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and a webinar for healthcare providers.
Additional Information: The CDC provides specific recommendations for measles vaccination before and during international travel. All travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles, typically meaning two doses of the MMR vaccine, given at least 28 days apart. Infants between 6 and 11 months should receive one dose before traveling, followed by a second dose according to the regular schedule. Travelers 12 months or older should have two doses of the MMR vaccine, given at least 28 days apart. Unvaccinated travelers should consult a medical professional to assess risk and possibly postpone travel. Furthermore, exposure risks can arise in crowded areas like airports, train stations, or large events, so travelers should have documented proof of vaccination. Don't forget, self-reported vaccination history isn't enough!
- The measles outbreak has highlighted the significance of the MMR vaccine in not only domestic but also international health-and-wellness, with the CDC updating its recommendations for vaccination in countries experiencing measles outbreaks.
- Businesses, recognizing the importance of workplace-wellness, are offering their employees therapies-and-treatments for chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular-health issues, cancers, and neurological-disorders, as part of their benefits package.
- In light of the uptick in air-travel-related measles cases, mental-health professionals are seeing an increase in cases of fear and anxiety related to travel and diseases like measles.
- As part of a broader emphasis on health and wellness, some employers offer eye-health checks and skin-care advice to their staff, recognizing these as important aspects of overall employee well-being.
- Tackling chronic diseases like cancer and respiratory-conditions is a crucial part of the international health agenda, with organizations focusing on research, prevention, and treatments for these conditions.
- With the rise of remote work, fitness-and-exercise programs are being designed to cater to employees at home, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cardiovascular-health and overall physical wellness.
- In the realm of international health, efforts are being made to combat the spread of diseases like measles by promoting vaccination and providing access to affordable medical care in developing countries.
- Neurological-disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, pose significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide, with research intensifying in an attempt to find cures and improve treatment options.
- Skin-care, an often overlooked aspect of health, plays a crucial role in wellness, and many dermatologists are advocating for preventive measures and early detection to manage skin-related medical-conditions and maintain overall health.
