Measles, once a common childhood illness, has become rare in many parts of the world due to effective vaccination programs. However, recent outbreaks highlight the importance of understanding this disease, its history, and the critical role of immunization.
A Brief History of Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that has affected humans for centuries. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, almost all children contracted the disease by the age of 15. In the United States alone, an estimated 3 to 4 million people were infected annually, leading to approximately 400 to 500 deaths, 48,000 hospitalizations, and 1,000 cases of encephalitis (brain swelling) each year.
The Impact of the MMR Vaccine
The introduction of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in 1963 marked a turning point in public health. Widespread vaccination led to a dramatic decline in measles cases, with the disease declared eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Globally, measles vaccination prevented more than 60 million deaths between 2000 and 2023.
Measles: Who gets it and how?
- Spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
- Virus can remain active on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours, making it exceptionally contagious.
- 90% of susceptible individuals (those unvaccinated or without prior immunity) in close contact with an infected person will contract the disease.
Recognizing Measles in Children
Early symptoms of measles include:
- High fever: Often spiking above 104°F.
- Cough: Persistent and dry.
- Runny nose: Clear discharge.
- Red, watery eyes: Also known as conjunctivitis.
A few days after these initial symptoms, a characteristic red, blotchy rash appears, typically starting on the face and then spreading downward to the rest of the body. Small white spots, known as Koplik’s spots, may also appear inside the mouth.
Potential Complications
While measles is often perceived as a mild illness, it can lead to severe complications, especially in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. These complications include:
- Pneumonia: Occurs in about 1 in 20 children with measles and is the most common cause of measles-related death in young children.
- Encephalitis: A serious brain inflammation occurring in approximately 1 in 1,000 measles cases, which can lead to convulsions and leave the child deaf or with intellectual disabilities.
- Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE): A rare but fatal degenerative disease of the central nervous system that can develop years after a measles infection.
For every 1,000 children who contract measles, 1 or 2 will die from it.
The Importance of Vaccination
Despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine, measles outbreaks still occur, primarily in areas with low vaccination rates. Recent data shows a resurgence of measles cases in regions of the US where vaccine coverage has declined. For instance, as of February 18th, 2025 in rural West Texas, there have been 58 confirmed cases of measles, up from 24 earlier that week. Over half of the earlier 24 confirmed cases needed to be hospitalized. This is the largest measles outbreak Texas has seen in 30 years.
The MMR vaccine is about 97% effective at preventing measles after two doses. Common side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as a sore arm, fever, or mild rash. Some individuals decline the MMR vaccine due to concerns about “mercury in the vaccine” and fears of it “causing autism.” It’s important to clarify that thimersol, a mercury-based preservative, was removed from all routine childhood vaccines in the United States by 2001 (except for some multidose flu vaccines and one form of tetanus vaccine). Notably, the MMR vaccine has NEVER contained thimerosal! Extensive research has found no credible evidence linking thimerosal in vaccines to autism or other neurodelopmental disorders. Studies have shown that autism rates continue to rise even after thimerosal was removed from vaccines in 2001.
Current Concerns and Recommendations
In light of recent changes and the loosening of vaccine mandates by public health officials for certain vaccines, pediatricians across the US continue to urge parents to fully vaccinate their children. The resurgence of diseases like measles poses a significant threat, especially considering the fact that many physicians practicing today have never encountered these illnesses firsthand due to previous successful vaccination campaigns.
Ensuring your child receives the complete MMR vaccination not only protects them but also contributes to community immunity, safeguarding those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons. Consult with your pediatrician to keep your child’s immunizations up to date and to address any concerns you may have about vaccine safety and efficacy.
Our Stance On Vaccines
All of the physicians at Mid City Pediatrics feel that vaccines are safe and effective, including the MMR vaccine. We urge our families who are hesitant about receiving vaccines to have a discussion with your pediatrician.
Sources: CDC, WHO, UpToDate
Dr. Cockrell grew up in nearby Natchitoches, LA. She graduated magna cum laude from Northwestern State University with a BS in Biology before pursuing her medical education at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in Shreveport. In 2004, she proudly earned her medical degree and was honored with membership in the esteemed Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society. After completing her medical residency training at LSUHSC while raising her young family, Dr. Cockrell made Shreveport her home. Since 2007, she has been a valued member of Mid City Pediatrics, certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.
