From the Guidelines
The risk of mortality from measles is approximately 1-2 deaths per 1,000 reported cases in the United States, with the most common causes of death being pneumonia and acute encephalitis. This risk is higher in certain populations, including infants, young children, and adults, compared to older children and adolescents 1. The severity of measles and its complications can vary significantly depending on factors such as age, nutrition, and access to healthcare. In developing countries, the case-fatality rate can be as high as 25% due to poorer healthcare conditions and higher rates of malnutrition 1.
Key factors that contribute to the risk of mortality from measles include:
- Age: Infants, young children, and adults are at a higher risk of death from measles compared to older children and adolescents
- Nutrition: Malnutrition can increase the severity of measles and its complications
- Healthcare access: Limited access to healthcare can lead to delayed or inadequate treatment, increasing the risk of mortality
- Complications: Pneumonia and acute encephalitis are the most common causes of death from measles
It is essential to note that vaccination is the most effective method of preventing measles and its complications, with the MMR vaccine providing approximately 97% protection after two doses 1. The standard vaccination schedule includes the first dose at 12-15 months and the second at 4-6 years of age. For unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles, receiving the vaccine within 72 hours or immune globulin within 6 days of exposure can provide some protection.
From the Research
Risk of Mortality from Measles (Rubeola)
- The risk of mortality from measles is high, especially in nonimmunized populations, with conditions such as unfavorable nutrition, high risk of concurrent infection, and inadequate case management favoring the development of complications and adverse outcomes 2.
- Measles can lead to serious complications, disability, and death, with the clinical spectrum ranging from a mild, self-limiting illness to a fatal disease 2, 3, 4.
- The effectiveness of measles vaccine in preventing disease is high, with one dose being at least 95% effective in preventing clinical measles and 92% effective in preventing secondary cases among household contacts 3, 4.
- The risk of mortality from measles can be reduced through vaccination, with the measles vaccine being effective in preventing disease in the individual and controlling it in the community if given at the critical age and with high immunization rates 2, 5.
- Certain populations, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, are at higher risk for complications and mortality from measles, and special considerations are needed for vaccination in these populations 5.