Measles, a disease once thought to be under control, is making a worrying comeback in the United States. Experts are warning about the serious risks for unvaccinated children.
Pediatricians are sounding the alarm over the resurgence of measles, an extremely contagious disease. In an article published in
Pediatrics, they emphasize the crucial importance of the MMR vaccine to prevent this infection. Complications can be severe, especially in young children.
In 2024, 40% of measles cases in the US required hospitalization. Children under 5 years old are particularly vulnerable, accounting for more than half of hospitalizations. The disease can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
The measles virus spreads through respiratory droplets and can remain suspended in the air for up to two hours. An infected person can contaminate up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals around them. Vaccination remains the best protection against this spread.
Neurological complications, though rare, are particularly severe. Encephalitis affects about one in a thousand cases, with possible long-term effects. Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, a fatal complication, occurs in one in 100,000 cases, primarily in infants.
The authors of the
Pediatrics article stress the safety and effectiveness of the MMR vaccine. They urge parents to consult a doctor immediately in case of exposure or symptoms, without attempting self-treatment.
Measles-related mortality is estimated at one to three deaths per thousand infections in the US. Children under 5 face an increased risk. Mass vaccination remains key to preventing these tragedies.
Faced with this resurgence, pediatricians emphasize the urgent need to check children's vaccination status. The MMR vaccine, administered in two doses, provides optimal protection against this potentially devastating disease.
How does the MMR vaccine work?
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella by stimulating the immune system. It contains weakened live viruses that cannot cause the disease.
After vaccination, the body produces specific antibodies against these three viruses. In case of future exposure, these antibodies quickly neutralize the pathogens before they can cause infection.
The vaccine's effectiveness is very high: two doses provide about 97% protection against measles. This immunity typically lasts a lifetime.
Side effects are usually mild (slight fever, temporary rash). The benefits of the vaccine far outweigh its risks, as confirmed by decades of large-scale use.