38 Countries Report Measles Outbreaks

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles is an ongoing global health risk.

As of early July 2023, health officials in 38 countries reported large measles outbreaks.

The top ten measles outbreaks were led by India, with 67,592 cases, as of July 18, 2023.

The CDC reissued a Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions Travel Health Advisory to alert international travelers of this risk. The CDC says measles is a risk if a person is not fully vaccinated two weeks before departure or has not had measles in the past.

The CDC says international travelers, including infants 6–11 months of age and preschool-aged children, should be fully vaccinated against measles with a measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine.

This CDC web tool empowers people to determine whether or not they need additional measles vaccination before departure. 

MMR vaccines are generally available in health clinics and community pharmacies in the U.S.

Measles is highly contagious, even on airplanes. Travelers should seek medical care if they develop a rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, or red, watery eyes. Vitamin A deficiency is a recognized risk factor for severe measles infections. 

Travelers with suspected measles should notify the healthcare facility before visiting so staff can implement precautions to prevent the spread within the facility.

In the U.S., the CDC has reported 19 measles cases in thirteen U.S. jurisdictions as of August 3, 2023. In 2022, there were 121 measles cases.