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The number of measles cases in the United States continues to grow, prompting further warnings from federal health officials. So far this year, in less than four months, more cases of measles have been reported than in 2022 combined.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are concerned that measles infections are increasing in the United States.

As of April 18, 125 cases had been documented across 17 states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

The vast majority of cases involve people who have not been vaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown, with children under the age of five accounting for approximately half of all cases.

“Parents, unfortunately, are withholding or delaying vaccinations against this disease,” Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist, stated.

Doctors say measles is incredibly contagious, and some parents believe it causes relatively minor illness.

“It is an absolutely nasty infection, and I would not wish a single child to have to experience measles,” Schaffner went on to say.

The most recent outbreak in Philadelphia occurred in December and January and involved nine persons. The outbreak has finally ended, according to the city. Measles symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, white spots in the mouth, and a rash that appears on the forehead and face and spreads.

“The measles virus can enter your chest and cause pneumonia. Even more gravely, it can enter your brain and trigger inflammation,” Schaffner explained.

Doctors advise that getting vaccinated is the most effective approach to avoid infection.

The CDC predicts that the United States will see 300 cases of measles this year. That is greater than in recent years. Measles is also becoming more prevalent all over the world.