The Georgia Department of Public Health confirmed the third incidence of measles this year in our state. The most recent case involved an unvaccinated individual going internationally with a group of students.
In response, the department is attempting to raise awareness about this preventable condition. The idea is to keep the numbers low.
Dr. Jennifer Shu is an Atlanta doctor. She claims that measles is rare, yet it is also one of the most contagious diseases.
“It does make me concerned because measles is probably the most contagious infectious disease known to man,” he said.
According to Shu, the infectious sickness was eradicated in the United States in 2000 but has made an unwelcome reappearance since 2019.
“If you are susceptible, meaning if your not adequately vaccinated or immune from infection, you probably have over a 90% chance of catching the measles,” she said.
The majority of people received their first immunization as infants, with the second dose administered between the ages of four and six.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been notified of 338 instances, with 97, or 29%, occurring in the first quarter of the year. Three of these incidents were documented in Georgia.
“What we do know about measles is that it can survive in a room for a few hours, potentially longer depending on airflow, and you should only be exposed to it for a few minutes. “To catch it if you are vulnerable,” Shu told FOX 5.
Doctors are concerned because unvaccinated people, particularly newborns under one year old, are the most vulnerable.
“The measles can induce a high temperature and a rash. It can induce respiratory symptoms, breathing difficulties, and lung disorders. “It can cause pneumonia, brain damage, deafness, and even death.” Shu stated.
According to the pediatrician, unvaccinated people who travel worldwide frequently contract measles and bring it back to the United States.
The vaccine is effective for the rest of your life when you receive it.