Measles Outbreak In Samoa Kills At Least 33, Prompting Help From CDC

The transcript discusses a severe measles outbreak in Samoa, affecting over 2600 people and resulting in 33 deaths, primarily among children under five. The outbreak was declared in October, leading to school closures and mandatory vaccinations. The virus spread from unvaccinated travelers from New Zealand. Samoa's vaccination rate dropped significantly due to anti-vaccine sentiment and a pause in the MMR program. Misinformation from anti-vaccine advocates exacerbated the situation. Globally, measles outbreaks are increasing, especially in areas with low vaccine coverage.

What measures did the Samoan government take in response to the measles outbreak?

• Implemented a curfew

• Increased import of vaccines

• Deployed military for public safety

• Closed schools and banned public gatherings

Which neighboring countries also experienced measles outbreaks?

• Fiji, Tonga, and American Samoa

• Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea

• Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia

• Hawaii, Guam, and Palau

What was a significant factor in the decline of Samoa's immunization rates?

• Economic recession

• Natural disasters

• Cultural anti-vaccine sentiment

• Lack of vaccine supply

Who were the prominent vaccine critics that visited Samoa?

• Barbara Loe Fisher and Joseph Mercola

• Del Bigtree and Sherri Tenpenny

• Andrew Wakefield and Jenny McCarthy

• Robert Kennedy Junior and Taylor Winterstein

What is the global trend in measles outbreaks according to the WHO?

• Stable with no significant changes

• Fluctuating with no clear pattern

• Increasing, especially in areas with low vaccine coverage

• Decreasing due to improved healthcare