Bay Area health departments have issued a joint statement urging residents to be vigilant about measles and ensure their vaccinations are up to date. The Association of Bay Area Health Officials (ABAHO) emphasized that the best protection against measles is the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, highlighting the importance of having two doses for lifelong immunity. This advisory comes as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a total of 64 confirmed cases of measles across 17 jurisdictions, with the majority of cases linked to international travel.

According to ABAHO, more than 90 percent of the confirmed cases were acquired during international travels, as measles continues to circulate in various regions worldwide, including popular tourist and business destinations. The group specifically called attention to the Bay Area's status as a major hub for international travel, heightening the risk of exposure to this highly contagious virus.

The ABAHO statement highlighted that most cases reported in the United States were found among children aged 12 months and older who had not received the MMR vaccine. To reduce the risk of infection, individuals and families planning international travel were advised to consult their healthcare providers and check the CDC's Global Measles Travel Health Notice for recommendations and information on reported measles outbreaks at their destination.

Upon returning to the United States, travelers were instructed to remain alert for measles symptoms for three weeks, including fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and a rash that usually appears 2 to 4 days later. Measles is spread through direct contact with infectious droplets or through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Infectious droplets can linger in indoor air for several hours.

ABAHO emphasized that measles poses the greatest risk to children under 5 years old, adults over 20 years old, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems. Vaccination was strongly recommended as it is highly effective at preventing measles. The standard MMR vaccine schedule includes doses at 12-15 months and between ages 4-6 years. Infants aged 6-12 months can start vaccination prior to international travel, and teenagers and adults without evidence of immunity should receive the vaccine without delay.

To ensure proper vaccination documentation and to avoid potential quarantine measures in case of exposure, ABAHO advised individuals to review their vaccination history and reach out to healthcare providers for any necessary updates. They encouraged residents to utilize digital vaccine record services for easy access.

ABAHO comprises health officers from various Bay Area counties, including Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Monterey, Napa, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Benito, San Francisco, San Mateo, Solano, Sonoma, and the city of Berkeley.

It is crucial for individuals to stay informed and proactive in protecting themselves and the community against measles. The ABAHO's warning serves as a reminder to prioritize vaccinations and take necessary precautions, particularly for those planning international travel in the near future.

Disclaimer: This article is an attempt to summarize and present the information provided and does not constitute medical advice. For specific guidance and concerns related to measles vaccination and travel, individuals are advised to consult with their healthcare providers and refer to official sources such as the CDC.