San Francisco Sun

Health Officers from the counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Solano, Sonoma, and the city of Berkeley are urging the public to remain vigilant as measles cases continue to rise in the United States.

"In 2024, there have been 64 confirmed cases of measles across 17 jurisdictions," stated the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with the majority of cases linked to international travel. The CDC emphasizes the importance of being up to date on vaccinations, particularly the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, which offers lifelong protection. Most cases in the US have been among children aged 12 months and older who were not vaccinated.

"With three major airports, the Bay Area is a hub for international travel, increasing the potential for exposure to this highly contagious virus," warned health officials. They advise individuals planning international travel to ensure they are vaccinated against measles and to check for any travel health advisories from the CDC.

Measles symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and conjunctivitis, followed by a rash. The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through the air or direct contact with infectious droplets. Health officials stress the importance of vaccination, as measles can lead to serious complications, particularly in children under 5 years of age, adults over 20, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

"Vaccination is highly effective at preventing measles," emphasized health officials. They recommend the MMR vaccine for children aged 12-15 months, with a second dose between ages 4 and 6. Infants as young as 6 months can receive early vaccination before international travel, while teenagers and adults without immunity should be vaccinated promptly.

To stay protected and prevent the spread of measles, individuals are encouraged to consult with their healthcare provider about vaccination records and access their digital vaccine records. By taking these precautions, the public can help safeguard themselves and others from the ongoing measles outbreak.