American Lung Association Encourages Parents to Talk to Healthcare Providers About Measles Risks and Recommended Vaccines as Part of Back-to-School Prep

In July, measles cases in the U.S. hit a 35-year high with 2,371 confirmed cases, of which 93% were in people who were unvaccinated or had unknown vaccination status. Measles is extremely contagious, and with back-to-school season upon us, children may be at risk. The American Lung Association President and CEO Harold Wimmer issued the following statement:

“The most important thing families can do to protect their children from measles is to speak with a healthcare provider and make sure they’re up to date on their provider-recommended vaccinations. The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine offers the best protection against this preventable and dangerous disease. As kindergarteners get ready to start school, and as older kids return to school and activities, they may be exposed to germs that cause respiratory illness.

“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It typically begins with a high fever, runny nose, pink eye and cough, and can lead to serious lung complications, particularly in young children and people with weakened immune systems or who are pregnant. Pneumonia is the most common cause of death from measles in young children. According to the U.S. Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, as many as 1 in 20 children with measles will develop pneumonia. Measles can also lead to a temporary loss of immunity to other diseases, making it harder to fight off infections.

“The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine (MMR) offers the best protection against illness and helps reduce the spread of this preventable and dangerous disease. Other vaccines recommended to protect children’s developing lungs include influenza, COVID-19 and DTaP/Tdap to provide protection against pertussis (whooping cough).

“The American Lung Association is urging parents to speak with their healthcare provider and make sure their children’s vaccinations are up to date before the school year begins.”

Learn more about lung health and measles here.