US measles outbreak: WHO issues travel warning amid rising cases

As many as 483 confirmed cases of measles, and two deaths, were reported in the US as of March 27.

WHO has urged travellers to ensure their vaccinations are up to date before travelling to the United States.

The health agency asked international travellers to “check and update their vaccination status against measles prior to departure,” including when they travel to the US.

WHO also said a stock of the vaccine and supplies must be maintained for responding to imported cases. 

This year, the measles outbreak has affected 20 jurisdictions in the US – Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, and Washington. Texas is the outbreak’s epicentre, with the state having recorded the highest number of cases – 400 – as of Friday, March 28.