The United States could lose its measles-free status as an expert panel meets in Washington to review outbreaks that have sickened thousands of people. The country has held the designation since 2000.
The Pan American Health Organization asked all 35 of its member states to submit reports on measles for the review. The panel’s annual meeting runs through November 13, and the experts will make their recommendations after closed-door discussions.
What Measles-Free Status Means
A country reaches measles elimination when it stops continuous local spread of the virus. Individual cases can still occur, including when travelers bring the virus into the country. Those cases can lead to outbreaks.
The question for the panel is whether the recent outbreaks amount to sustained transmission in the United States. The review comes after the country recorded its highest measles infection rate in more than three decades.
Experts Review Evidence in Washington
The panel is reviewing reports from across the Americas as part of its annual meeting. The U.S. review will help determine whether the country still meets the criteria for elimination after more than two decades with the designation.
As of November 11, the review is underway. The United States still holds its measles-free status while experts consider the evidence.
