Capitol News

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently issued an advisory regarding a rise in measles cases globally and within the United States. In Michigan, the Department of Health and Human Services reported its first measles case since 2019 on February 23. TIME magazine highlighted that measles cases increased by nearly 80% in 2023, despite the availability of vaccines.

Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, millions were infected annually in the U.S. The World Health Organization estimates that between 2000 and 2016, the vaccine prevented over 20 million deaths worldwide. However, nearly 40 million children missed their measles vaccine doses in 2022 according to CDC reports.

Michigan State University (MSU) experts are available to discuss issues related to measles, including its resurgence in Michigan, vaccine efficacy, cultural aspects of vaccinations, and parental rights.

Peter Gulick from MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine noted: “Measles has not been a problem since we’ve had the vaccine... But when there’s reduction in immunity over time, then all you need is one case.”

Sean Valles from MSU Center for Bioethics and Social Justice stated: “A common opinion among vaccine experts... is that vaccines are their own worst enemy.”

Angela Chia-Chen Chen from MSU College of Nursing observed: “The findings of my research about vaccination suggest... hesitancy has arisen since the COVID-19 pandemic.”

B. Keith English from MSU College of Human Medicine remarked: “I know vaccines work — I’ve watched their success throughout my career.”

Rhonda Conner-Warren from MSU College of Nursing emphasized: “The best way for healthcare providers to address this has been through face-to-face conversation.”

Heatherlun Uphold from C.S. Mott Department of Public Health mentioned: “Advancing vaccine equity... begins with community.”

Robert Root from MSU Health Care advised parents to ensure children are up-to-date on vaccinations: "Amidst recent outbreaks across the country... Protecting our children through vaccination is paramount."

Rebecca Schein from MSU Health Care stressed: "Recent events underscore the importance of vaccination against measles."

These insights highlight ongoing concerns about vaccination rates and public health efforts needed to prevent further outbreaks.