Dr. Francisco Durán García, the national director of Epidemiology at Cuba's Ministry of Public Health, issued a warning on Wednesday regarding the critical importance of vaccinations in Cuba. This comes in response to a recent measles outbreak in the United States, where over 200 cases have been reported across various regions.
"There's been a noticeable increase in measles cases in the U.S. It began in Texas but has since spread to other states," Dr. Durán noted during his regular appearance on the Cuban Television News System. He emphasized that this surge in infections has sparked significant concern among health experts, particularly as childhood vaccination rates have declined in the U.S.
A particularly alarming development is the death of a child due to measles, which Dr. Durán described as "unacceptable, because this is a preventable disease through vaccination." In contrast to the situation in the U.S., Cuba has successfully kept measles eradicated since 1993, thanks to its national immunization program.
Dr. Durán reminded the public that the country administers the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, rubella, and mumps, to children at one year old and again at six years old. "We maintain this status. I take this opportunity, as always, to urge mothers to be vigilant at the one-year mark and ensure their children are vaccinated," he advised, highlighting the crucial role family doctors and nurses play in ensuring vaccination coverage.
Cuba's vaccination program is renowned for its effectiveness, boasting coverage rates exceeding 95%, a stark contrast to the declining vaccination rates in the U.S., where misinformation and distrust in vaccines have led to the resurgence of preventable diseases.
Dr. Durán stressed the importance of not neglecting the pediatric immunization schedule on the island, as "with vaccination, this disease should not cause outbreaks or fatalities."
Meanwhile, a student from Miami Palmetto Senior High School in Pinecrest, Florida, tested positive for measles, confirmed by Miami-Dade County Public Schools officials on Tuesday. This case has raised concerns among parents and school staff. Principal Victoria Dobbs sent a voice message to families informing them of the infection and advising parents to notify the school if their children show symptoms.
The school district also stated that it is collaborating with the Florida Department of Health to prevent any further spread. The measles outbreak in the U.S. has reached alarming levels, with nearly 200 cases reported in nine states, primarily among individuals who were not vaccinated or whose vaccination status is uncertain, according to health authorities.
To date, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recorded measles cases in Alaska, California, Georgia, Kentucky, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Rhode Island, and Texas, as reported by the EFE agency.
Understanding the Measles Outbreak in the U.S.
Why is measles a concern in the United States?
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to serious health complications and even death. The recent outbreak is concerning because it reflects declining vaccination rates, which increase the risk of spread.
How has Cuba managed to keep measles eradicated?
Cuba has maintained measles eradication since 1993 through a robust national immunization program that ensures high vaccination coverage, exceeding 95%.
What measures are being taken in Florida following the measles case?
In Florida, the school district is working closely with the Department of Health to contain any potential spread, and families have been advised to monitor their children for symptoms.