Understanding measles and the current outbreak

Statistics also show that 1 to 3 out of every 1,000 children who become infected with measles will die from respiratory or neurologic complications.

"It's hard for physicians and nonmedical people in the United States to diagnose because we don't see many cases," explains Dr. Scherger. "We know there are circulating viruses and bacteria that we vaccinate against regularly. If we have pockets where people are not being vaccinated, or vaccine rates continue to fall across the entire country, that's when we will see more outbreaks like this occur."

Vaccination

The most effective way to prevent measles is by vaccination. The vaccine is primarily administered as the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccine. The CDC recommends routine childhood immunization for MMR vaccine starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age, or at least 28 days following the first dose.

The MMRV vaccine is also available to children 12 months through 12 years of age. People who are born during or after 1957 who do not have evidence of immunity against measles should get at least one dose of MMR vaccine.

"We need to not go back there, so it's important to make sure you and your children are vaccinated," says Dr. Scherger. "Ninety percent of people have the potential of becoming infected if they're not vaccinated."

One dose of MMR vaccine is approximately 93% effective at preventing measles; two doses are approximately 97% effective. Almost everyone who does not respond to the measles component of the first dose of MMR vaccine at age 12 months or older will respond to the second dose.

Dr. Scherger says if you ever have any questions about measles or vaccinations, have a conversation with your primary care clinician.

"I have talked to people through various options, and I've talked to people about their concerns. I know we're all here, pediatricians and family doctors, for the benefit of your child," says Dr. Scherger.