Carly MurphyCalifornia is experiencing a troubling rise in Measles cases this year, according to the CDC and the California Department of Public Health. This resurgence comes as nationwide measles cases have nearly tripled compared to last year, highlighting the critical need for widespread vaccination. The busy summer travel season can lead to an uptick in cases.
Measles, once declared eradicated in the U.S. in 2000, requires a 95% vaccination rate to prevent outbreaks. Despite California achieving this average among kindergarteners, localized vaccination gaps continue to pose a threat. Dr. Jeff Goad, Professor of Pharmacy Practice and the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the School of Pharmacy at Chapman University emphasizes, “The 2022-2023 CDC data indicated California has about 95% of kindergarten children vaccinated. That’s great overall for CA, but that’s an average. There are counties and cities with much lower rates, which is why we still see outbreaks. Two doses of the MMR vaccine is over 97% effective at preventing Measles.”
The CDC said the current uptick in cases is due to an increase in vaccine hesitancy since the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a global uptick in measles cases.
Jeff Goad is available for interviews to provide insights on the current measles situation and the importance of vaccination. His expertise is particularly relevant in the context of the ongoing public health challenges. He can be reached at goad@chapman.edu
