Due to the increasing spread of infectious diseases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued updated guidelines.
Targeting every American seeking to go abroad, the agency urges all international travelers to receive the measles vaccination.
These guidelines come amidst a record rise in measles cases, sounding a grim alarm for unaware travelers.
The CDC now advises all Americans traveling overseas to be fully vaccinated against measles, regardless of their destination.
This marks a significant shift from the previous focus on regions with known outbreaks.
The changes come after a string of recent exposures, like the measles outbreak in Colorado linked to a Turkish Airlines flight, which underscores the risks of transmission during travel.
“We’re seeing a shift from localized outbreaks to transmission in transit,” said Ashley Darcy-Mahoney, a professor at George Washington University’s nursing school.
The advisory focuses on protecting against measles, an illness that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and even breathing shared air.
The virus is even capable of lingering in a space for up to two hours, so unvaccinated individuals are particularly at risk.
The U.S. has already reported over 1,000 measles cases this year, with many linked to international travel.
“All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles,” the CDC restated in its travel notice.
The MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is now recommended for all travelers aged 12 months and older.
Infants 6 to 11 months old are advised to receive an early dose before leaving the country.
The alarm is not without reason. Earlier this year, 62 cases linked to international travel forced regulators to act swiftly.
Most of these infections occurred among unvaccinated travelers returning to the U.S.
Complications from measles can include severe symptoms like high fever, pneumonia, and even brain swelling, making the CDC’s guidance an essential preventive measure.
“Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family, and your community,” the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment stated.
With this new CDC guidance, Americans are urged to act responsibly, not just for themselves but for those they come into contact with.
The rise in measles cases across states like Kansas, Texas, and New Mexico highlights the urgent need for enhanced vigilance as the global resurgence continues.
