US CDC plans to send disease detective as Pennsylvania reports 1,200 of 4,400 measles cases
CDC support for Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania formally requested assistance through the CDC’s Epi-Aid program. The agency said it would help meet the state’s identified needs and reinforce response work on the ground. The CDC describes an Epi-Aid as a rapid, short-term field investigation for an urgent public health problem. Support can include adding staff for a quick response and strengthening epidemiologic capacity.
Cases and vaccination status
The CDC reported more than 4,400 measles cases across the country. Pennsylvania health officials have reported at least 1,200 cases in the state, along with six measles-related deaths.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health said fewer than 1% of the state’s cases were among people fully vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. The CDC reported that 2% of cases involved people with one dose and 2% involved people with the recommended two doses.
CDC vaccine recommendations
The CDC recommends two MMR doses: the first at 12 to 15 months of age and the second between ages 4 and 6. The agency says one dose is 93% effective against measles and two doses are 97% effective.
Key points
- More than 4,400 measles cases have been reported in the U.S.
- Pennsylvania has reported at least 1,200 cases and six related deaths.
- Pennsylvania requested CDC assistance through the Epi-Aid program.
- The CDC recommends two MMR doses to prevent measles.