Recent data indicates a troubling decline in measles vaccination rates, raising concerns about a potential outbreak in 2021. A study conducted by researchers at Ohio’s Nationwide Children’s Health revealed a significant drop in the number of children receiving the MMR vaccine during the pandemic. Focusing on children under 16 months from March 2017 to August 2020, they observed nearly a 10% decrease in the first MMR dose administered since March 2020—the onset of stay-at-home orders due to COVID-19.
Dr. Emily Carter, the lead author of the study and a primary care pediatrician, expressed alarm at this trend. “With the decline in vaccination rates, we risk facing a serious measles outbreak that could impact our communities,” she stated. Another study by Professor John Thompson from the Global Health Institute also highlighted that many children missed their MMR vaccines this year, declaring future outbreaks “inevitable.”
Thompson pointed out that the pandemic disrupted vaccination campaigns, leading to many children missing scheduled immunizations. The World Health Organization estimated that by late October 2020, 94 million children in 26 countries missed their measles vaccinations due to postponed campaigns.
Henrietta Lee, Executive Director of UNICEF, emphasized the importance of not allowing the fight against COVID-19 to compromise efforts against measles. She stated, “Before the coronavirus crisis, we were already facing a measles crisis, which has not disappeared.”
Experts warn that the current situation creates a fertile ground for severe measles outbreaks in 2021, potentially leading to increased mortality rates and other serious complications associated with the disease. The researchers at Nationwide Children’s stressed the urgent need to enhance vaccination efforts and provide catch-up opportunities, particularly in areas with high COVID-19 incidences. If the trend continues, a measles outbreak is, regrettably, on the horizon.
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In summary, the decline in measles vaccination rates during the pandemic poses a significant risk of future outbreaks, with experts urging immediate action to prevent this public health crisis.