AMA urges public to get vaccinated against measles as cases surge

Statement attributable to:
Toluwalasè A. Ajayi, M.D.
Board chair, American Medical Association

"As measles cases continue to surge across the U.S., now is the time to make sure you and your family are protected. Getting vaccinated remains our strongest defense against this disease that is both highly contagious and entirely preventable.

"Measles spreads before people even know they're sick. It can cause serious complications-including pneumonia, brain swelling, blindness, and even death. When vaccination rates fall, the consequences are felt far beyond case counts-patients face preventable illness, families and communities are put at risk, and diseases like measles return and spread.

"The MMR vaccine has protected our communities for decades. There is no cure for measles, but vaccination is a safe and effective way to prevent it. Choosing to vaccinate protects not only you and your family, but also babies, people with weakened immune systems, and others who can't be vaccinated. Protecting yourself helps protect your entire community. If you have questions about measles, please talk with your doctor."

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Editor's note: More information on measles is available on the AMA's measles resource hub.