United States Set to Have Worst Measles Outbreak in a Decade

America is on course to have its worst outbreak of measles in more than a decade, the Daily Mail reported.

At least 89 cases have been reported in the last four months alone, compared to an annual average of 50 cases.

Most of the cases are linked with a big outbreak in Europe, where more than 6,500 people have contracted the disease.

Measles have been particularly prevalent in Minnesota, where 21 children were infected, and in in Utah, where 9 children were infected.

Researchers blame the outbreaks on falling immunization rates after a discredited study linked the MMR vaccine to autism.

Now international health officials are warning all travellers to get the recommended two doses of vaccine before they go abroad.

Measles is a highly contagious disease characterized by a spotty reddish-brown rash all over the body.  Other symptoms include runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, red eyes, light sensitivity, and high fever.

There is no specific treatment for measles, but ibuprofen can be taken to reduce fever.

Click here to read more from the Daily Mail.