Measles Outbreak in U.S. Highlights Severe Health Risks

A growing measles outbreak has led to hospitalizations, deaths, and concerns over long-term immune complications and fatal brain inflammation.

The U.S. measles outbreak has reached 223 confirmed cases across multiple states, with two deaths and 29 hospitalizations reported, primarily affecting unvaccinated individuals.
Measles can cause severe complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and a fatal brain disease called subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE).
The virus is extremely contagious, spreading through air and surfaces, and can remain infectious in a room up to two hours after an infected person leaves.
Measles can weaken the immune system by destroying memory cells, a condition known as 'immune amnesia,' leaving patients vulnerable to other infections for years after recovery.
Public health experts emphasize the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective with two doses, as the best defense against the disease and its complications.