The CDC is issuing new guidelines for people planning international travel as measles is making a resurgence globally, with cases increasing by 79 percent in 2023.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website states that “many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of measles cases,” adding: trip. “
Specifically, the CDC website states that Americans who plan to visit another country should consult their doctor six weeks in advance if they have questions about whether they have received the measles vaccine. According to the agency's travel advisory, travelers who have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks before traveling abroad are at risk of contracting measles.
“According to the CDC's measles vaccination recommendations for international travel, all international travelers should receive measles vaccination with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including early vaccination for infants 6 to 11 months of age. Must be fully vaccinated.
In another notable update, Russia and Malaysia have been added to the CDC's map of 46 countries with significant increases in measles cases. Other countries where health authorities have reported large measles outbreaks include Afghanistan, Armenia, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates. To see a complete list of countries with measles outbreaks, visit the CDC website.
The CDC also recommends seeking medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms while traveling abroad:
- rash
- high fever
- cough
- snot
- red watery eyes
It's also important to remember that measles is highly contagious, according to the CDC website. Additionally, travelers who suspect they have measles should notify their health care provider prior to their visit so that staff can proactively prepare appropriate measures to prevent spread within the facility.
Another page on the CDC website points out that two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97 percent effective against measles, and one dose is 93 percent effective.
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