NEW YORK — Health authorities in the United States have revised their recommendations regarding international travel and measles vaccinations, advising that all Americans should ensure they are protected against the measles virus before embarking on any international trip.
Previously, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mainly stressed the necessity of vaccinations for those traveling to countries experiencing measles outbreaks. However, the updated guidelines now recommend vaccinations for travelers who are visiting any foreign country, indicating a shift in the CDC’s approach.
According to Ashley Darcy-Mahoney, a researcher specializing in pediatric health at George Washington University’s nursing school, this change is significant. She pointed out a recent measles outbreak in Colorado, which originated from an international flight landing in Denver, highlighting the potential risk of exposure during air travel.
“We’re observing a transition from outbreaks in isolated areas to transmissions occurring during travel,” Darcy-Mahoney explained, suggesting that the CDC’s new guidance is a response to this evolving threat.
The updated travel notice from the CDC recommends that all American travelers over the age of one receive two doses of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine. Additionally, an early dose is advised for infants aged 6 to 11 months who will be traveling internationally. This year alone, the United States has recorded over 1,000 cases of measles.