Measles Imported by Returning U.S. Travelers Aged 6-23 Months, 2001-2011

Cocoros et al summarize CDC analysis on imported measles cases reported in US travelers aged 6-23 months for the period Jan 2001-Feb 2011. The results indicate that, during Jan-Feb 2011, a total of 13 imported cases were reported in US residents, including the seven children aged 6-23 months. Because measles remains endemic in much of the world, international travelers should be up-to-date on vaccinations. In accordance with the Advisory Committee for Immunization Practices recommendations, US children who travel or live abroad should be vaccinated at an earlier age than those living in the US because of the greater risk for exposure to measles outside the US, and particularly outside the Americas. A CDC editorial note is presented.