The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned this week that additional measles cases in the United States can be expected in the coming months as the busy summer travel season approaches.
In guidance sent to state and local health departments on April 27, federal health officials urged public health agencies across the United States to remain vigilant and prepared for more measles cases in the upcoming months. The CDC noted that travel surges during the spring and summer raise the risk of further spread.
"With continued measles transmission in areas across North America and expected increases in international and domestic travel and large events during spring and summer, additional measles cases are anticipated in the coming months," the CDC said in the guidance.
The agency reminded state and local health departments to immediately report suspected measles cases — within 24 hours — to the CDC and through the National Notifiable Disease Surveillance System. Public health agencies were also recommended to ensure that hospitals have clear procedures for reporting measles cases to authorities.
The CDC advised public health agencies to document and report details of each case, including close contacts and locations visited while a person was infectious. Active surveillance should be conducted to identify any additional suspected cases and quickly transport specimens for laboratory confirmation, the CDC said.
