CDC reports largest U.S. measles outbreak since virus eliminated in 2000

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention yesterday reported 695 cases of measles, the most since the virus was eliminated in the U.S. in 2000. Cases have been reported from 22 states, with the largest outbreaks in Washington state and New York. The recent outbreaks started when unvaccinated travelers to countries with widespread measles transmission returned to the U.S. and exposed others who were unvaccinated. "This current outbreak is deeply troubling and I call upon all health care providers to assure patients about the efficacy and safety of the measles vaccine," said CDC Director Robert Redfield. "And, I encourage all Americans to adhere to CDC vaccine guidelines in order to protect themselves, their families, and their communities from measles and other vaccine preventable diseases."