Pennsylvanians are being urged to take precautions against measles this summer as cases rise in the state and across the country.

In the state, 32 measles cases have been confirmed amid a nationwide surge, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Candace DeMatteis, vice president of policy and advocacy for the Partnership to Fight Infectious Disease, said measles is the most infectious pathogen humans commonly encounter. She stressed vaccination rates of about 95% or higher are recommended to prevent outbreaks.

“In Pennsylvania, we're below 94%, which doesn't sound like that much, but that's also the state average, so there are pockets that are well below that number,” DeMatteis explained. “Unfortunately, that leaves people vulnerable to measles, which is a very serious respiratory infection.”

The CDC reported as of last Thursday, more than 1,900 confirmed measles cases had been reported in 40 jurisdictions in the United States. Nearly all involved people who were unvaccinated or unsure about their vaccination status.

DeMatteis noted cases also are rising internationally, including in parts of Europe, Mexico and Canada. She added travel hubs such as airports, hotels and train stations can increase the risk of exposure, and urged travelers to make sure they are protected.

Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent measles and other infectious diseases, DeMatteis emphasized.

“There are many different vaccines against what they call vaccine-preventable diseases,” DeMatteis outlined. “Measles is one of those. Two doses of the MMR, measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, are 97% effective against preventing getting measles.”

DeMatteis pointed out a bipartisan poll by her group surveyed more than 1,000 voters and found more than 90% support making vaccines accessible and affordable, and respondents also want officials to ensure insurance covers doctor-recommended shots.

Pennsylvania residents who suspect they have been exposed to measles should contact the state Department of Health.

Source: Public News Service