Measles Outbreak
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a significant increase in measles cases, with the number of cases surpassing the peak of the 2019 outbreak. According to the CDC, the number of cases with symptoms starting in the week of March 30th has grown to 111.
Comparison to Previous Outbreaks
This exceeds the 102 cases reported for the week of March 23, 2019, which was the height of the previous outbreak. The 2019 outbreak resulted in the largest annual total of measles cases since the virus was declared eliminated in 2000.
Current Outbreak
The majority of cases this year are attributed to a continuing outbreak in Texas and neighboring states, which is now larger than any other outbreak since the virus was eliminated. At least 750 of the measles cases reported this year are associated with this outbreak, with cases also reported in Oklahoma and other states.
New Cases
There have been 11 new measles outbreaks in the US this year, compared to 10 last week. While the pace of new cases appears to have slowed in Texas, it is too early to determine if the outbreak is truly coming to an end.
Monitoring the Outbreak
Authorities are monitoring the trends over time and waiting to see a decline in new cases over several weeks. They are also watching for potential increases in cases due to travel during the Easter holiday weekend.
Underreporting
This year’s total number of cases is likely an undercount, with officials and experts citing anecdotes of unreported infections. The high severity of this year’s outbreak also suggests that many mild cases may not be diagnosed.
Comparison to Other Countries
In Canada, over 1,000 measles cases have been confirmed this year, breaking records. The US has reported at least 935 cases this year, according to the CDC. While 7% of cases in Canada have resulted in hospital stays, 13% of cases in the US have led to hospitalization, and there have been deaths from measles in the US this year.
