Traveling during measles outbreaks: How to avoid infection while flying
Measles is spreading All over the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported more than 220 cases nationwide as of March 7th.
The increase in incidents began in Texas, where 223 cases have been identified since late January (as of March 11).
A new incident was confirmed last week in a Howard County, Maryland resident after an international trip to Washington, D.C.
US Measles Occurrence: Look at the states where incidents are reported
Officials argue that the incident has nothing to do with the Texas outbreak and warn travelers that they are keeping an eye on measles symptoms. I traveled to the airport Around that same time.
Wedmd CMO Dr. John Whyte (not in the photo) recommended that travelers wear masks, wash their hands and be aware of their surroundings amidst the outbreak of measles. (istock)
Measles is highly contagious and is the most intimidating individuals who have not been vaccinated, Dr. Marc Siegel, senior medical analyst at Fox News, previously told Fox News Digital.
“If you’re not vaccinated, there’s a 90% chance you’ll get it and step into the room where someone with measles was two hours ago,” he warned.
Maryland confirms the first case of measles from travelers at Major DC Airport
Traveling through limited spaces such as planes can lead to even more concerns about exposure.
In an on-camera interview with Fox News Digital in New York City, Dr. John Whyte, WebMD’s chief medical officer and practitioner, highlighted how measles is contagious. Respiratory virus. ”
“The good news is that if you’re vaccinated, it’s unlikely you’ll be affected.”
“Measles is much more contagious than COVID,” he said. “It’s a factor that’s several times more contagious.”
According to White, one infected person could shock others to around 10-15 people.
There are multiple ways to protect yourself From infection During the trip and flight, the doctor said it would include recognizing your surroundings and wearing a mask in the area where the case was detected.
Traveling through limited spaces such as planes can lead to even more concerns about exposure. (istock)
The doctor also recommended “good hand washing” after touching the surface and then keeping the surface clean. Virus Droplet It can stick and spread when contact is made.
People with measles often do not become symptomatic until 4 days after exposure, and because White shares it, it may be difficult to track the origin of the infection.
Florida warns first measles cases of the year in public schools as experts highlight vaccination
White mentioned it Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine Although “very effective,” some people have opted not to get vaccinated.
As the MMR vaccine is most commonly administered to children, some adults may not remember whether they received it or not, and may be worried about their immune strength.
White noted that MMR vaccine boosters are available to people who lack immunity. (istock)
White proposed to receive the titer of measles. This is a blood test that measures antibody (immunity) levels.
This is especially important for those who do Travel to other countriesif there may be high risk of exposure, the doctor added. For those with no immune system, MMR vaccine boosters are available.
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“I think you’re starting to see measles in your area and are worried about whether you’re immune.
“If not, practice all the good hygiene methods we’ve talked about. Wash your hands. Wear a mask. Be careful of your surroundings. Clean surfaces.”
Measles cases most occur in school-age children who are not vaccinated, data show. (istock)
For those who feel unwell, White encouraged him to stay home and refrain from traveling for help. Keep others healthy.
Symptoms of measles usually start with coughing and sneezing, leading to a red rash on the face and body a few days later.
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“Many doctors (having) have never seen measles,” White pointed out. “So, if you think you might have been exposed, you have to prompt your doctor from time to time.”
Measles can cause serious complications, says doctors, especially those with swelling in the brain and pneumonia. senior citizen.
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“The good news is that if you’ve been vaccinated, it’s unlikely you’ll be affected if you come into contact with someone who has a parable,” White said. “That’s the overall beauty of vaccinations.”