Why is measles spreading in Canada, Mexico and the US?
The United States and Canada are experiencing one of their worst measles outbreaks in years, while the virus has also crossed to neighbouring Mexico.
A total of 2,500 cases and four deaths have been reported in the outbreaks across the three countries. Vaccine hesitancy has been blamed.
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Here is what we know about the outbreaks so far and why measles cases are on the rise.
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that starts with symptoms including high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and sensitivity to light. A few days after infection, a red, blotchy rash typically appears on the face and spreads down the body. Fatigue and loss of appetite are also common.
Most people recover within two to three weeks but complications, particularly in young children and those with weakened immune systems, can be serious.
These include ear infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia and brain swelling (encephalitis) which can lead to permanent disability or death. In wealthier countries, measles causes about one death in every 5,000 cases, but in lower-income regions with weaker healthcare systems, the fatality rate can be as high as one in 100.
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A total of 2,500 cases and four deaths have been reported in the outbreaks across the three countries. Vaccine hesitancy has been blamed.
Recommended Stories
list of 3 items
list 1 of 3
WHO warns of measles resurgence as cases exceed 10 million in 2023
list 2 of 3
African researchers could stop HIV but US aid cuts are in the way
list 3 of 3
Global health funding faces worst crisis ‘in memory’, WHO chief says
end of list
Here is what we know about the outbreaks so far and why measles cases are on the rise.
What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that starts with symptoms including high fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and sensitivity to light. A few days after infection, a red, blotchy rash typically appears on the face and spreads down the body. Fatigue and loss of appetite are also common.
Most people recover within two to three weeks but complications, particularly in young children and those with weakened immune systems, can be serious.
These include ear infections, diarrhoea, pneumonia and brain swelling (encephalitis) which can lead to permanent disability or death. In wealthier countries, measles causes about one death in every 5,000 cases, but in lower-income regions with weaker healthcare systems, the fatality rate can be as high as one in 100.