Unvaccinated? CDC Says Stay Home, Contagious Disease Surging Globally 

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United States: There is an increase in measles cases in countries worldwide, which has prompted the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to update its travel warning. 

Until now, the CDC merely advised travelers to get immunized against measles prior to their departure, but now it is strongly recommending it. 

Why Is the CDC Urging Vaccination Now? 

People traveling may come in contact with measles in various locations like airports, train stations, buses, museums, and crowded events, the CDC added. 

The reports sent to the CDC this year indicate more than 60 cases of measles on US flights or around the country, according to CBS News. 

What Makes Measles So Contagious?  

Measles exposure happens when a person sneezes or coughs, and the virus may survive in the air or on any surface for up to two hours after someone with measles has been in that area. 

Once travelers bring the infection home, people who are not vaccinated can be quickly infected as well. 

Most of the people who bring measles to the United States from other countries are unvaccinated citizens who get infected abroad, according to the CDC. 

Are You Protected Before Your Next Trip? 

According to the CDC, all people traveling abroad should be fully vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella two weeks ahead of the trip. 

Either one shot initially for children in the age range of 6 to 11 months and two doses far enough apart for those for anyone 12 months or older with no immunity. 

Anyone who is not sure they are immune to measles should get a doctor’s appointment at least six weeks in advance to get fully vaccinated. 

People who are not safe to receive the vaccine are advised by the CDC to hold off on their trip. 

People of any age can have severe measles, which can cause complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. 

How to take precautions? 

  1. Verify Your Vaccination Status: Before traveling, confirm with your healthcare provider whether you’ve received both doses of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine or have documented immunity. 
  1. Avoid High-Risk Areas if Unvaccinated: Unvaccinated individuals, including infants too young for vaccination, should avoid international travel and crowded public spaces like airports and festivals. 
  1. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and avoid touching your face. Carry hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available. 
  1. Wear a Mask in Crowded Spaces: Although primarily known for preventing respiratory illnesses like COVID-19, masks can also reduce exposure to airborne viruses such as measles, especially in enclosed, crowded environments. 

What to do in case of exposure? 

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention if Exposed: If you think you’ve been exposed to measles and are unvaccinated or unsure about your immunity, contact your doctor right away. Early intervention can reduce complications. 
  1. Isolate if Symptoms Appear: Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash. Anyone showing signs should stay home, avoid contact with others, and inform health authorities. 
  1. Report Cases Promptly: Travelers returning from abroad who develop symptoms should report to local health departments to help contain potential outbreaks. 
  1. Stay Informed: Follow CDC travel advisories and local health department updates regularly to assess measles risks in your destination before traveling. 

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