Measles cases rise; two-dose vaccine strategy vital

Measles cases are rising, and public health experts emphasize the importance of the two-dose vaccine strategy. Dr. Ravi Jhaveri, a pediatric infectious disease professor at Northwestern University, explained that while the first vaccine dose offers 95% protection, it is crucial to achieve higher coverage due to the virus's contagious nature. Jhaveri highlighted that misinformation about vaccines could lead to significant measles outbreaks in the U.S. He noted that over 90% of parents vaccinate their children each year, which is encouraging. “Let’s not forget the vast majority of people who are vaccinating,” he stated. Originally, only one dose of the measles vaccine was given, but that changed due to major outbreaks in the U.S. The second dose was introduced to cover the small percentage of people not fully protected by the first dose. This second dose was eventually moved to age four for convenience. In a recent Q&A, Jhaveri addressed common concerns. If a child has only received one vaccine dose, they may still get a second before the age of four in outbreak situations. Those vaccinated with two doses have a much lower risk of severe disease, even during outbreaks. Jhaveri also warned that other vaccine-preventable diseases, such as chickenpox, could resurface if vaccination rates drop. He reassured that polio is less likely to return in the U.S. due to widespread global vaccination, with only a few countries currently experiencing polio outbreaks.