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More than 100 measles cases have been confirmed by the CDC with outbreaks in three different states. Experts point out that lack of vaccines is the main cause, but have epidemics led to an increase in vaccinations?
THE QUESTION:
Has there been an increase in vaccinations after measles outbreaks across the country? What is the difference between an "eliminated" virus and a "eradicated" virus?
THE ANSWER:
Yes, in the affected counties of Washington and New York, health officials report an increase in the vaccination rate.
And although the Centers for Disease Control has declared measles "eliminated" in the United States, that does not mean that there can be no more cases. A virus is declared "eradicated" only if it has been eliminated in all countries and regions of the world. As measles cases still occur in foreign countries, the United States will likely continue to see more.
WHAT WE HAVE FOUND:
The CDC reported that the United States had "eliminated" measles in 2000. In 2011, they reconfirmed the elimination of the virus.
"Elimination" in their definition, is when a virus is not continuously transmitted for 12 months or more. In simple terms, if the virus is not constantly present, it fits the definition.
However, there are still cases. The CDC data show that there have been several cases of measles each year, but they have almost all been linked to external sources.
In current outbreaks, the CDC has identified five sites where three or more cases have been reported.
The audit team looked to the managers in each of these areas to see if vaccination rates had increased as a result of the outbreaks.
The New York State Department of Health has confirmed figures for Rockland and Orange counties. To date, they have seen 25 cases in 2019 and have been almost five times more vaccinated than in previous years. In 2016, they administered 3,256 doses. From 2018 to 2019, this number has increased to 14,338 doses.
Health officials in the state of Washington also confirmed that there had been an increase in MMR vaccinations in both counties affected by measles.
The Texas State Department Health Department said it was too early to determine if there had been an increase.
Health officials in New York City did not respond.
This information shows that in the affected areas, measles vaccinations have increased. This claim is VERIFIED.
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