### Measles Prevention for International Travelers The CDC is urging people to ensure they are vaccinated against measles before summer travel. International travelers are particularly at risk, as 88% of all cases in the U.S. so far this year are linked to international travel. Measles is highly contagious; 9 out of 10 unvaccinated people who come in contact with someone with measles will contract the illness. The virus can remain in the air or on surfaces for 2 hours after an infected person leaves an area. One vaccine dose is 93% effective, and two doses are 97% effective. **Symptoms of Measles** - Fever - Cough - Runny nose - Rash Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), and even death. A recent outbreak in Ohio infected 85 children, 80 of whom were unvaccinated. Thirty-six of these children had to be hospitalized. **Vaccination Recommendations** The timing and number of measles vaccine doses for international travelers may vary. It's advised to consult your doctor several weeks before traveling. For infants and very young children, measles vaccines are needed earlier and closer together than the usual pediatric schedule. **Post-Travel Precautions** After returning from international travel, watch for signs and symptoms of measles for 3 weeks. If you or your child gets sick with a rash and a high fever, call your doctor and inform them about your travel history and vaccination status. **Importance of Vaccination** Last year, there were 121 cases of measles reported to the CDC. So far this year, there have been 16 cases. Recent cases in California highlight the critical role of vaccinations in protecting the community. Parents are urged to work with their pediatrician or health department to ensure their child is up-to-date on vaccinations.