Measles: A Resurgent Threat in the Age of Vaccination

Measles is a highly contagious disease with potential serious complications that may even result in death. The CDC states that if one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected. The measles vaccine is effective against getting the disease.  The measles vaccine has been in use for over 60 years, and side effects, if any are mild from the vaccine. Studies have shown that there is not a link to autism and the measles vaccine.
In the year 2000, the United States declared measles was eliminated. However, measles exist throughout the world and unvaccinated travelers may acquire the measles and expose others throughout their travelling. The CDC reports, as of April 3, 2025, a total of 607 confirmed measles cases were reported by 22 jurisdictions, including Michigan.  https://www.cdc.gov/measles/data-research/index.html#cdc_data_surveillance_section_10-measles-cases-in-2025
Kent County Health Department issued confirmation of a measles case in a Kent County resident, marking the first confirmed measles case since 2013 and Michigan’s second case of the year.
https://www.kentcountymi.gov/AlertCenter.aspx?AID=Measles-Case-Confirmed-in-Kent-County-Re-19
For Michigan Measles Dashboard 2025, visit: https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/childrenfamilies/immunizations/measlesupdates
For more information on the measles outbreak in the US and tips for the upcoming travel season, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/han/2025/han00522.html