Measles Virus Analysis

Measles is a virus that has been around for centuries. Once thought to be almost eradicated from the United States, small outbreaks throughout the decades are not unusual. The most recent outbreak of measles began in 2014 in Los Angeles, California at Disneyland. While this outbreak has not been as monumental as previous outbreaks, the numbers of those now infected is high. In a society where it is customary to become vaccinated against diseases like this, it is always surprising that outbreaks like this occur. The outbreak of measles that started in California is an eye opener to society and shows the importance of getting the measles vaccination. The number of measles cases has been consistently increase and migrating to different states …show more content…
Currently 20% of the victims infected from the Disneyland measles outbreak have had to be hospitalized (Zipprich et al). Getting vaccinated is extremely important, especially when going to places that have millions of visitors a year like Disneyland. In 2000, it was declared in the United States that measles had been eradicated, an amazing accomplishment (Aliferis). But one person who is not vaccinated can reintroduce the measles virus. Measles remains an incredibly deadly virus, especially for those who are young (“Measles”). This disease is able to spread at a rapid rate and is contracted easily from other people. The symptoms of measles get worse as the virus progresses. The symptoms start out with the usual fever, runny nose, and irritated eyes. The measles virus progresses to white bumps and then a full rash of red blotches all over the skin ("Measles (Rubeola): Signs and Symptoms”). While measles is treatable, it is still deadly. And the best way to prevent someone from getting the measles virus is to have him or her vaccinated (“Measles”). The measles vaccination can be given to infants starting as early as when the child is one year old. The second vaccination for measles can be administered closer to the time of kindergarten