The resurgence of measles in North America, with nearly 1,000 cases in the US this year, reflects a concerning loss of herd immunity, as highlighted by infectious disease expert Dr. Paul Offit. Although the US achieved herd immunity and eradicated measles in 2000, vaccination rates have dropped below the necessary 95% due to the anti-vaccine movement. Currently, only 91% of Americans are vaccinated, leading to a potential spread of other infectious diseases. The outbreak, primarily centered in Texas, has resulted in three confirmed deaths, underscoring the urgency of addressing vaccination gaps.
"The measles outbreak proves that the world has reverted back to a 'post-herd immunity' world when that level of immunization didn't yet exist."
"Measles is the most contagious of the vaccine-preventable diseases and the first to come back as herd immunity declines."
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