Connecticut has the highest kindergarten MMR vaccination rate in the U.S. at 98.2%, surpassing the herd immunity threshold, with overall vaccination rates increasing since 2020. Despite high vaccination coverage, some schools still fall below herd immunity levels, and flu vaccination rates are declining amid rising flu cases. The state eliminated religious exemptions in 2021, allowing only medical exemptions.
The measles outbreak in South Carolina has grown to 185 cases, mostly among unvaccinated children, highlighting ongoing challenges with vaccine hesitancy and the resurgence of measles in the US, despite the vaccine's success in eliminating the disease for over two decades.
A study found that children who miss early vaccines are more likely to miss the MMR vaccine by age 2, highlighting the importance of timely vaccination to prevent measles outbreaks, especially amid recent declines in vaccination rates in the U.S.
Utah health officials are recommending an early, extra dose of the MMR vaccine for infants aged 6-11 months in Washington County due to a measles outbreak, despite concerns that it may reduce long-term protection, as the benefits of early protection outweigh the risks in high transmission areas.
An op-ed criticizes the CDC acting director's call to develop separate vaccines for measles, mumps, and rubella, arguing that it lacks scientific basis, would hinder vaccination efforts, and could lead to increased disease outbreaks, emphasizing the proven success and safety of the current combined MMR vaccine.
The CDC and the Trump administration are considering separating the combined MMR vaccine into individual shots amid a measles outbreak, but experts warn this would be costly, complicated, and potentially reduce vaccination rates, with no scientific evidence supporting the need for such a change.
Public health experts oppose splitting the combined MMR vaccine into separate shots, citing no scientific benefit and risks of reduced vaccination coverage, which could lead to outbreaks of measles, mumps, and rubella, especially endangering vulnerable populations like infants and immunocompromised individuals.
Acting CDC director Jim O’Neill suggested separating the MMR vaccine into three individual shots, a move unsupported by research and opposed by experts, citing potential decreases in vaccination adherence and increased disease risk. The proposal echoes past discredited claims linking vaccines to autism and raises concerns about complicating vaccine schedules and manufacturing.
The acting CDC chief, Jim O’Neill, has proposed breaking up the MMR vaccine into three separate shots, a move unsupported by evidence and potentially harmful, as it could reduce vaccination rates and increase disease risk. This stance aligns with vaccine skepticism promoted by political figures like RFK Jr., amidst ongoing measles outbreaks and declining vaccine coverage, raising concerns about public health safety.
A child under 5, unvaccinated and recently traveled to Mexico, has been hospitalized in Colorado, marking the state's 17th measles case this year, highlighting ongoing concerns about measles outbreaks and the importance of vaccination.
Health officials in Scotland are urging increased vaccination against measles following a rise in cases, with 26 confirmed cases so far this year, surpassing the total for 2024. Despite high vaccination rates, some areas like Govanhill have lower coverage, risking further outbreaks. Authorities are actively promoting the MMR vaccine through multilingual campaigns and community outreach to prevent serious complications associated with measles.
A recent increase in measles cases in Bristol and Gloucestershire has led the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) to urge the public to ensure they are up to date with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. With 15 new cases reported in the last two weeks, the highly contagious virus poses a significant risk, especially to pregnant women, young children, and immunocompromised individuals. The UKHSA emphasizes the importance of vaccination to prevent further spread and protect vulnerable groups.
Despite CDC evidence debunking the myth, 24% of U.S. adults still incorrectly believe the MMR vaccine causes autism, contributing to vaccine hesitancy and a rise in measles cases. A new survey underscores the need for better public education on vaccine safety.
Cook County's Department of Public Health warns of potential measles exposure at an Evergreen Park Sam's Club, with visitors on April 9 between 10 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. urged to review their immunization records. A Chicago resident, known to health officials, was contagious with measles. Health officials advise monitoring for symptoms and ensuring MMR vaccine is up-to-date. As of April 15, Illinois has confirmed 64 measles cases, with 58 in Chicago and the rest in surrounding counties.
The Cincinnati Health Department has been notified that an out-of-town visitor to Cincinnati has tested positive for measles after flying from Illinois to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and visiting the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati and Morton's Steakhouse. Those who may have been exposed are urged to monitor for symptoms and contact the health department for further information. Health officials also emphasized the importance of checking immunity status through the MMR vaccine, as COVID-19 infections in the city continue to decrease.
