Why Measles Outbreaks Are Hard to Stop

An outbreak has infected 40 people in the Pacific Northwest and officials say more cases are likely.

A measles outbreak has appeared in the United States leaving dozens infected in two states.

The outbreak is just the just latest to appear in the United States in recent years despite the fact that the virus was declared “eliminated” by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2000.

The latest outbreak has affected at least 40 people in Oregon and Washington. A public health emergency in the latter state was declared due to the outbreak, which started at the border of both states, near the Portland area.

Measles is a highly contagious virus, and the outbreak is compounded by lower-than-average vaccination rates in the region.

Symptoms of measles include a high fever, stuffy nose, red eyes, and rash. In severe cases, brain swelling, hearing loss, or even death can occur.

In recent years, areas with high numbers of unvaccinated people have been hit by measles outbreaks.

Last year, there were 349 cases of the measles in the United States that came from 17 outbreaks. That was the second-greatest number of annual cases reported since measles was considered to be eliminated in 2000.

The disease normally lasts about two weeks. There’s no treatment for the disease, but in severe cases, hospitals can provide supportive care.