As the spring break season approaches, ensuring your family stays healthy is crucial, especially when it comes to preventing measles. According to Emma Lark, a public health advocate at the CDC, measles is still a prevalent disease in various regions globally, including parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Most measles cases in the U.S. are linked to international travel, brought in by unvaccinated individuals who contract the virus abroad. This can lead to outbreaks as they inadvertently spread the disease to others.
If you’re planning to travel outside the U.S., it’s important to prepare at least a month in advance. Start by reviewing your family’s vaccination history with your pediatrician to ensure everyone is up to date. The CDC offers these four recommendations for protecting your family during international travel:
- Infants aged 6 to 11 months should receive one dose of the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.
- Children aged 12 months and older need two doses of the MMR vaccine, spaced at least 28 days apart.
- Teenagers and adults who are not already immune should also get two doses of the MMR vaccine, with a minimum of 28 days between doses.
- Parents who received the measles or MMR vaccine as children typically do not need a booster, as those born before 1957 are considered immune. However, if there’s uncertainty, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
When it comes to who should avoid traveling, Dr. Lucas Green, a pediatric specialist, advises caution for immunocompromised individuals and infants too young for the vaccine. He emphasizes the need for personal evaluation in each case. Currently, there’s no immediate cause for alarm regarding air travel, but crowded places can pose a higher risk. For infants under 6 months, he suggests thoughtful consideration, and often, postponing travel may be wise.
For further details on measles and to stay informed, check out the CDC’s dedicated measles page, which is routinely updated. And if you’re interested in fertility topics, this blog post on home insemination kits provides valuable insights. Additionally, explore boosting fertility supplements for those considering family planning. For a deeper understanding of conception methods, you might find this resource on in vitro fertilisation helpful.
In summary, as you prepare for your spring break travels, ensure your family is protected against measles by following the CDC’s vaccination guidelines. Taking these precautions will help keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy while enjoying your adventures.