UW Med Protect yourself from measles before summer travel - no safe place to go

In 2025, the U. S. has reported more than 1,300 measles cases, highlighting the urgent need for vaccinations as summer travel season begins. Dr. Paul Pottinger of UW Medicine emphasizes that vaccination is the only reliable way to prevent the disease, which spreads easily in crowded areas.

He warns travelers that unvaccinated individuals are at risk of contracting measles in environments like airports and public transport. “There's no safe place to go on vacation and not catch measles if you haven't had your shot,” Pottinger remarked. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also helps prevent the virus's spread to others. As travel increases, health officials stress the importance of community immunity through vaccinations. The CDC's report underscores the necessity of vaccination to combat the measles outbreak.

Travelers are encouraged to protect themselves and others by ensuring they are vaccinated before traveling.