Researchers highlight gaps in vaccination due to skepticism about childhood vaccines and international travel bringing measles into the country. Experts call for accessible vaccination and research on addressing public concerns about vaccine safety.
The study found that measles death rates were 197 times greater in developing countries than in developed countries, while syphilis death rates were 33-45 times higher. Ebola mortality rates were also significantly higher in developing countries, with 4,447 deaths compared to just two in developed nations.
A study found that measles illness lasts for almost 14 days and causes people to miss nearly 10 days at work or school on average. The analysis also showed that the average number of quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) lost due to measles is 0.019 per patient, equivalent to 6.9 QALYs.
A new report by Princeton University researchers suggests that expanding the age of eligibility for measles vaccination from 12 to 15 months could significantly increase coverage in Africa. The study found that increasing the age range would have the most impact on countries with high rates of unvaccinated children.
A dedicated website for the MMR vaccine is proposed as a simple yet effective way to boost vaccination rates. The study found that providing parents with online information reduces concerns and is more cost-effective than traditional methods like leaflets or face-to-face consultations.
A recent measles outbreak in the US highlights the need for physicians to be familiar with the deadly disease, particularly in return travelers with fever and rash. The author emphasizes the importance of measles vaccination and vigilance in healthcare facilities to prevent further spread.
Researchers developed a novel antiviral drug to combat measles by reducing virus levels in animals. The drug also prevented animals from dying of the disease and boosted their immunity against the virus. While promising, additional research is needed before its use in humans.
Children conceived during a severe epidemic show increased resistance to later diseases, a phenomenon known as functional trans-generational effect. This discovery suggests that parents can prepare their children for future diseases, and the underlying mechanism may be linked to an optimized immune response in high-pathogen environments.
A global consensus statement establishes standardized definitions and measurements for drug-resistant tuberculosis in children. Research findings highlight the importance of colonization pressure as a predictor of healthcare-associated MRSA infections.
The measles virus uses a hairpin-like structure to bind to the MDA5 receptor, preventing it from forming filaments and signaling viral RNA. This interaction allows the virus to evade the immune system's defense mechanisms.
Researchers developed a microneedle technique to dry and stabilize the measles vaccine, showing it remained effective for at least 30 days. The method could provide a new tool for international immunization programs against measles, which killed nearly 140,000 children in 2010.
Babies born to HIV-positive mothers are at risk of measles infection due to impaired maternal antibodies. Early immunization is crucial to prevent measles virus transmission and complications.
The GAVI Alliance has pledged an additional $162 million to control and prevent measles outbreaks in six high-risk countries. The funding will strengthen routine immunisation systems and follows a decision last November to provide over $600 million to tackle rubella through a combined measles-rubella vaccine.
A Mayo Clinic expert and pediatrician refute three immunity-related misconceptions about vaccines, citing a recent review of 1,200 articles that found no autoimmune side effects. The experts also emphasize the risk of illness and death from under-vaccination, including whooping cough and measles.
Global measles mortality decreased by 74% from 535,300 deaths in 2000 to 139,300 in 2010. Despite this progress, India and Africa remain major concerns due to low vaccine coverage. The authors suggest intensified control measures are needed to achieve mortality reduction targets.
A new model based on game theory and social learning can predict the patterns of vaccine scares, explaining why vaccine uptake takes time to recover after a scare. The model highlights the interplay between disease dynamics and vaccination behavior, suggesting that herd immunity can lead to complacency among unvaccinated individuals.
A study by Kaiser Permanente found no increased risk of febrile seizures among 4-6 year olds after measles-containing vaccine administration. The research analyzed over 86,750 children and found that separate MMR plus V vaccines also did not increase the risk of febrile seizures in this age group.
A Princeton University study found that nighttime-lights imagery can pinpoint disease hotspots in urban areas with migratory populations. The technique accurately indicates fluctuations in population density, which is linked to the risk of epidemic.
Researchers discovered measles virus exits host via nectin-4, a biomarker for certain types of cancer. This finding opens up promising new approaches for targeted cancer therapy.
The measles virus spreads quickly due to its use of the trachea receptor nectine-4, allowing it to contaminate individuals through airborne transmission. This discovery also reveals a potential link between the measles virus and certain cancers, offering new prospects for cancer treatment.
Researchers found that the measles virus uses a protein called nectin-4 to infect and leave from the throat, making it highly contagious. This discovery may also help in fighting ovarian, breast, and lung cancers.
Researchers developed a method to estimate vaccination program effectiveness in three African countries, identifying areas for improvement. The study's findings can inform strategies to increase vaccine coverage and address issues with vaccine delivery.
A new three-dimensional model of measles virus helps explain unaccounted observations in its life cycle. The study found matrix protein forms helical tubes around the viral genome and nucleocapsid, regulating replication and genome movement.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic identified mutations linked to immune response to the measles vaccine, which could enable physicians to prescribe appropriate doses and timing based on routine genetic screening blood tests. The study's findings also have implications for the development of more effective vaccines and personalized vaccination.
The reappearance of measles is linked to unfounded fears about a link between the measles shot and autism, says Dr. Gregory Poland. Despite over 20 studies finding no connection between MMR vaccine and autism, some parents have turned against childhood vaccination.
Researchers discovered that measles virus can target tumors through the PVRL4 receptor, a marker found on lung, breast, colon, and ovarian cancer cells. This approach could be used to fight various types of cancer, with ongoing experiments testing its effectiveness in mouse tumor models.
A recent measles outbreak in Tucson, Arizona, resulted in 14 confirmed cases and highlighted the need for continued vigilance in healthcare settings. The investigation revealed that the lack of electronic records documenting health care personnel's immunity status led to unnecessary vaccinations and furloughs, resulting in significant ...
A dry powder, live-attenuated measles vaccine was successfully tested in rhesus macaques, providing complete protection with a single dose. The novel vaccine can be shipped as powder and does not require reconstitution or special training to administer.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute found that enzyme ADAR1 slows down measles virus replication and protects cells against other respiratory viruses. The discovery provides a significant improvement in understanding measles infections, which kill around 150,000 children and adults worldwide.
Researchers have discovered the molecular mechanism of measles virus infection, which could lead to a targeted cancer therapy. The study found that modifying the attachment protein is crucial for infectivity, and this discovery brings the dream of using measles virus as a cancer weapon closer to reality.
A new Cochrane review confirms vitamin A supplementation programmes in developing countries effectively reduce measles and diarrhoea incidence, saving thousands of lives. Researchers recommend continued use but emphasize the need for long-term solutions like fortification and dietary diversification.
A modified measles virus has been shown to effectively kill medulloblastoma cells in laboratory studies and mouse models, suggesting its potential as a new treatment option for childhood brain tumors. The vaccine strain targets the CD46 receptor, which is highly expressed in multiple tumor types.
The dry powder, inhalable vaccine has been shown to be stable under challenging environmental conditions and is estimated to cost only 26 cents per dose. Phase One clinical trials are set to start in India this summer, followed by Phase Two trials involving a larger number of patients.
Ann Veneman's leadership at UNICEF has sparked a debate about her potential second term, with some praising her focus on child survival while others criticize her lack of field experience. The Lancet editor Dr. Richard Horton calls for a transparent, merit-based appointment process to select the next Executive Director.
A new article reviews published research and finds no convincing evidence supporting a relationship between vaccines and autism. The onset of autism occurs prior to age three, with various possible associations examined but no clear cause identified.
A new method of delivering measles vaccines, using an inhalable powder, has shown promise in test animals. The powder is produced by mixing a weakened measles virus with high-pressure carbon dioxide and can remain stable for at least eight weeks at room temperature.
A dry powder inhalable measles vaccine is being developed for clinical trials in India, which could save millions of lives annually. The vaccine uses a patented process called CAN-BD to create an inhalable powder that can be administered via a simple inhaler.
Progress has been made in vaccinating low-income children on schedule, with significant increases in timely vaccination coverage for varicella and hepatitis B vaccines. However, disparities between low- and high-income children remain, particularly for the DTaP-DTP vaccine.
Dr. Joel Selanikio's innovative EpiSurveyor software is revolutionizing public health in developing nations by enabling efficient data collection, analysis, and decision-making. With the help of open-source mobile technology, thousands of health workers can now access critical data, reducing measles deaths by nearly 90% in Africa.
Population immunity to measles was insufficient to interrupt transmission three years after a mass vaccination campaign in Zambia. Repeated mass vaccination campaigns are necessary to achieve high routine vaccine coverage and reduce measles deaths and illness.
Researchers have found that certain measles virus vaccine strain derivatives can effectively infect, replicate in and kill prostate cancer cells. This type of treatment, called virotherapy, shows promise as a potential cure for locally advanced or metastatic prostate cancer.
A study of 32 European countries reveals over 12,000 measles cases in two years, mainly among unvaccinated or incompletely vaccinated children. Suboptimum vaccination coverage raises doubts about the 2010 elimination goal, with countries like Switzerland and Germany struggling to achieve high coverage rates.
A study published in Public Library of Science found no association between the MMR vaccine and the onset of autism or gastrointestinal symptoms in children. The study analyzed bowel tissues from 25 children with autism and GI disturbances, as well as 13 controls, and found no presence of measles virus RNA in either group.
Researchers found that the measles virus can replicate only in immune cells, causing disease in monkeys and potentially improving cancer therapy efficacy. The study's findings challenge traditional textbook assumptions about how the virus spreads, paving the way for more effective vaccines and treatments.
Researchers found a strong seasonal fluctuation of measles transmission rate in Niamey, Niger, which can help predict annual outbreaks. Vaccinating at least 95% of children with two doses of the measles vaccine is crucial to controlling the disease, particularly in areas with high birth rates and limited access to healthcare.
A recent study published in Archives of Disease in Childhood finds no association between the MMR vaccine and autism spectrum disorders, contradicting previous research. The study analyzed blood samples from nearly 250 children with autism, as well as comparison groups without autism or special educational needs.
A study found significant decreases in illness and death rates for 13 vaccine-preventable diseases in the US, including near 100% declines for some diseases like diphtheria, measles, and smallpox. High vaccine coverage levels have contributed to these achievements.
Two new studies emphasize the importance of delivering measles and influenza vaccines to HIV-infected individuals. Measles vaccine administered at age 9 months showed limited protection in HIV-infected children, highlighting the need for supplementary vaccinations to maintain immunity. In contrast, rates of influenza vaccination among ...
New research from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health finds that only half of HIV-infected children maintained protective antibody levels 27 months after receiving measles vaccine. Repeat vaccinations are crucial to prevent measles outbreaks in regions with high HIV prevalence.
A Vaxfectin-formulated measles DNA vaccine has elicited protective levels of neutralizing antibodies and sterilizing immunity in juvenile and infant nonhuman primates, offering proof of concept for the technology. The vaccine showed no vaccine-related adverse events and was well-tolerated.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic are testing an engineered measles virus against multiple myeloma, a cancer of the bone marrow with no cure. The study aims to exploit the protein CD46 to target and kill cancer cells.
A comprehensive immunization strategy has reduced global measles mortality by 60% over the past six years, saving nearly 7.5 million lives. The strategy's four components have been instrumental in achieving this goal, particularly in high-burden countries.
Mayo Clinic Cancer Center is conducting a clinical study using a vaccine strain of the measles virus to treat recurrent glioblastoma multiforme, a deadly brain tumor. The study has shown promising results in shrinking tumors and prolonging animal survival.
A new MUHC study provides conclusive evidence that the MMR vaccine is not associated with autism spectrum disorders. The study's findings contradict previous molecular studies that falsely linked the vaccine to autism. The research team uncovered fundamental errors in these earlier studies, clearing the MMR vaccine of its link to autism.
Negative publicity in 1998 led to a sharp increase in MMR vaccine uptake among nursery school children, with the sharpest decline occurring for those born from 1999 onwards. The most affluent sectors tended to vaccinate early or not at all, while parents in deprived areas delayed vaccination.
A new study found that measles immunization can prevent fatal brain infections caused by SSPE. The researchers discovered wild-type measles virus in brain tissues from vaccinated individuals with SSPE, suggesting that the vaccine is highly effective in preventing these infections.
Researchers have developed a way to engineer an alternative outer covering for the measles virus, allowing it to recognize and target only cancerous cells. The 'virus in stealth' approach uses pieces from an animal virus that cannot infect humans to disguise the measles virus, enabling it to evade the immune system and reach tumors.
A study found that 35% of children using complementary alternative medicines (CAM) had lower vaccination rates, while 8.9% were unvaccinated for diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella. Parents' misconceptions about vaccine safety can lead to adverse events and harm their children.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have successfully created an 'obedient virus' that can specifically target and destroy cancer cells, paving the way for potential use in human therapies. The virus was engineered to seek out cancer cells instead of healthy cells, and has been shown to be effective in laboratory tests.
Researchers use physics and transportation theory to define a network of spatial spread of contagious disease. The models accurately predicted the spread of childhood diseases like measles and animal diseases like phocine distemper.