CDC finds US measles spread 6.5 times higher than reported, risking elimination status
Updated
Updated · CNN · Apr 24
CDC finds US measles spread 6.5 times higher than reported, risking elimination status
1 articles · Updated · CNN · Apr 24
Genomic analysis shows the Arizona-Utah outbreak began up to 14 months before detection and has over 600 reported cases, with wastewater testing in Oregon detecting measles 100 times despite only six reported cases.
The CDC is conducting a nationwide genomic study, with results expected by June, to determine if measles has been transmitting continuously for over a year—potentially ending the US's elimination status.
Low vaccination rates and distrust in public health have fueled underreporting, while related outbreaks in Texas, South Carolina, and Canada suggest widespread endemic transmission rather than isolated importations.
Is the US fighting one national measles outbreak or many separate introductions from abroad?
If wastewater detects measles before people get sick, why are outbreaks still growing so large?
How do federal funding decisions affect local responses to the worst measles outbreak in decades?
With measles now endemic, what is the path back to the nation’s elimination status?
With a massive measles outbreak in Mexico, what is the risk for the upcoming FIFA World Cup?
Genomic data suggests the outbreak is 6.5 times larger. Where are the missing patients?