Praxis Medical Insights

Epidemiology and Risk Factors

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that indigenous measles transmission was interrupted in the United States in 1993, with measles declared eliminated in 2000, however, international importations continue to occur, with 557 confirmed cases reported in the US during 2001-2008 1, 2
The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that complications including pneumonia and encephalitis still occur in developed countries, with 23% of US cases requiring hospitalization during 2001-2008 2
High-risk populations, such as infants and young children, face higher mortality and complication risks, including potential ocular involvement 3, 4
Unvaccinated populations are at particular risk, with 65% of US resident cases during 2001-2008 occurring in eligible but unvaccinated persons 2

The World Health Organization recommends vitamin A supplementation for ALL children with clinical measles regardless of country of residence: 200,000 IU for children ≥12 months, 100,000 IU for children <12 months 3, 5
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises that the cornerstone of preventing measles-related blindness in first-world countries is maintaining high vaccination coverage, with first MMR dose at 12-15 months, second dose at 4-6 years 3, 4
Post-exposure prophylaxis with MMR vaccine within 72 hours of exposure may provide protection 3
Healthcare workers and other high-risk groups require documented immunity 2