Health experts say it’s only a matter of time before a measles outbreak hits Wisconsin. Currently, outbreaks are spreading in Texas and New Mexico. Last week, a child in Texas died from measles. It was the first death from measles in 10 years.

Dr. Nasia Safdar, an expert from the University of Wisconsin, said, “Measles is very contagious. Given the large outbreak in Texas, Wisconsin is at risk. It’s only a matter of time before we see cases here.” Therefore, vaccination is crucial.

Vaccination fates are not enough

Dr. Ajay Sethi, another expert at the University of Wisconsin, agrees. He said populations need at least 95 percent vaccination rates to prevent an outbreak. According to Wisconsin Department of Health Services, about 81.6 percent of Wisconsin children had at least one measles shot in 2021. That number has not changed much since then.

The vaccination rate varies by county. Waukesha County has the highest rate at 88.9 percent. But Vernon County in western Wisconsin has the lowest rate at only 52.9 percent.

Dr. Sethi says, “We don’t have enough vaccinated children to protect us from an outbreak. No county is safe. It only takes one case to start an outbreak.” This shows the importance of widespread vaccination.

Measles symptoms are hard to catch early

Dr. Sethi explains why measles can spread quickly. “It’s very infectious. You can spread it four days before a rash appears. Early symptoms are similar to the flu. This makes it hard to catch early, emphasizing the need for early vaccination.”

Measles is dangerous for everyone, but it can be worse for some groups. Communities of color often face a higher risk because of limited access to healthcare and vaccines. A study from 2004 found that, during a major outbreak in the late 1980s and early 1990s, nonwhite children were four to seven times more likely to get infected.

After the outbreak, more children got vaccinated, and measles was eradicated in 2000. But now, it is coming back due to falling vaccination rates.

Fewer parents are vaccinating their children

Dr. Safdar is worried. “Fewer parents are vaccinating their children. It used to be the default. Now, it’s a concern.”

Dr. Sethi agrees. He says, “Vaccination is safe. It’s never too late to vaccinate. Given the situation in Texas, now is a great time to get vaccinated.”

Bird Flu: Another concern for experts

Another health issue experts are watching is H5N1, also known as bird flu. This virus has been affecting birds, and now it’s spreading to mammals. It’s one reason why egg prices are high.

Dr. Sethi says, “It’s concerning that the virus can infect more species. This means it’s growing and spreading.” This is why the need for bird flu vaccination could become significant.

The good news is that bird flu has not been fatal for most people who caught it. So far, it hasn’t spread from person to person, but experts are still watching closely.

Dr. Sethi says, “The virus hasn’t changed into something that spreads easily between people. The strains that have infected humans haven’t caused deaths. But there are different strains, and some have been deadly.”

Dr. Safdar shares a similar view. “The virus can cause severe illness, but so far, it hasn’t been deadly for most people. If the virus changes, it could become a bigger problem.” Necessary vaccination could prevent this issue.

Vaccination rates too low? Concerns at the federal level

Both Dr. Sethi and Dr. Safdar are worried about actions from the current administration. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who leads the Department of Health and Human Services, has spoken out against vaccines in the past. This has raised concerns among health experts.

Dr. Safdar says, “There’s no debate in the scientific community about the value of vaccines. Vaccination saves lives. We’ve seen the destruction measles can cause in places where vaccines aren’t available.”

Uncertainty about flu vaccines for next year

Dr. Sethi is also concerned about next year’s flu season. The meeting to decide which flu strains will be included in the vaccine was canceled. This meeting usually takes place every year in March.

Dr. Sethi says, “This meeting is important for choosing the flu strains for next year’s vaccine. Without it, the vaccine’s production could be delayed.”

Dr. Sethi explains, “The best-case scenario is that other experts, like the World Health Organization, can help decide the vaccine. But no one knows if the meeting will be rescheduled or canceled. This uncertainty is worrying.”

Conclusion

The rise of measles and bird flu are serious concerns for public health. Vaccination is urged by experts to protect against these diseases. It’s important to stay informed and take action to keep our communities safe.