Written By: Satata Karmakar | Updated : March 21, 2025 11:00 AM IST
US Measles Outbreak: Highly Contagious Virus Spreads Rapidly, Texas And Mexico Among Worst-Hit Areas
Measles Outbreak In US: After battling the COVID-19 virus for over 5 years, the United States is now in the grip of another deadly, highly contagious virus - Measles. According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the country has reported a total of 301 cases of the highly contagious brain swelling virus infection -- the worst outbreak in over 20 years. The majority of the infections have been reported from Texas, and Mexico, where one child and two men have died of the complications.
"Measles is one of the most contagious infectious diseases, and in some cases can cause severe infections in the lungs and brain that can lead to cognitive issues, deafness, or death. But doctors and health officials say the vaccine, which is normally given as part of the combination measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, is highly safe and effective," CDC said.
While most people's symptoms improve, about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people who get measles will be hospitalized. About 1 out of every 1,000 children with measles will develop brain swelling that can lead to brain damage, and up to 3 of every 1,000 children who become infected will die, the CDC adds.
Let's know more about this dangerous brain swelling virus, and understand what the US is facing right now.
Measles, scientifically known as rubeola, is a highly contagious viral infection which is caused by the measles virus (MeV). The virus primarily attacks the respiratory system after entering the body. Then it rapidly spreads to other organs, damaging them. How does the virus transmit from one individual to another? Just like any other virus, the measles virus also spreads through airborne droplets from an infected person. Measles is known for its characteristic red rash, high fever, and flu-like symptoms. While often considered a childhood illness, it can infect individuals of any age, especially those who are unvaccinated.
Measles is a very contagious disease caused by a virus. Thankfully, measles can be prevented with MMR vaccine.@CDCDirector explains why it's important for you and your family to stay up-to-date on measles vaccination https://t.co/Qub2ZVmuaKpic.twitter.com/giZjqTZo4z
CDC (@CDCgov) March 13, 2024
Measles symptoms typically appear 10 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. The initial symptoms include:
After a few days, a red rash appears, starting from the face and spreading to the rest of the body. Another early sign of measles is Koplik's spots, which are tiny white spots that appear inside the mouth before the rash emerges.
Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to humans. It spreads through:
A person infected with measles can spread the virus up to four days before and after the rash appears, making it difficult to contain outbreaks.
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