Measles Outbreak

Measles have been making a comeback recently. Hundreds, even thousands, of cases have been popping up along the American continents. So far, over 2300 cases have been confirmed over the American continents, with a little over 1000 of these being in Canada. The United States is second in recent cases, having over 900 cases, about 660 of which are in Texas, and two deaths so far. Other states with confirmed cases of a smaller amount include but aren't limited to states: Texas, California, Washington, and states bordering the Great Lakes. Mexico has had an outbreak as well, with a bit over 580 confirmed cases with one death. About 96% of these cases are located in the city of Chihuahua.

For those who don’t know, Measles is a highly contagious and dangerous disease. It's airborne, it can be spread through coughing, sneezing, and even breathing. Its first symptoms contain high fever, coughing, runny noses, and pink eye. This usually begins a week or two after contracting it. About two days after the first symptoms begin, Koplik spots, or small white spots will start forming inside the mouth. After three to five days after the first symptoms, measles rash starts to form. Measles rash are red spots that usually appear at the hairline before making their way down to other parts of the body, such as the neck, arms, and feet. The people most at risk are pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems; as well as kids below five and adults above twenty.

There are general ways to avoid diseases, such as washing your hands and avoiding areas where the disease is said to be. Another way to help stop the spread of measles is to get the vaccine since a majority of the confirmed cases are from unvaccinated individuals.

Stay safe out there, and be sure to stay healthy.

Image Courtsey: Nick Youngson