US measles outbreak concerns health experts

BUFFALO, N.Y. — A measles outbreak in the United States is concerning health experts.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 100 cases have been recorded so far this year. CDC data also shows that cases are 17 times higher than the average number seen in the last three years.

Some medical professionals want to remind people just how severe the disease can get, if not protected properly.

"This is an infectious disease that we need to take seriously, and I think people have forgotten about this. Since our vaccines have been so effective, most people have never seen a case of measles in their lifetime," Dr. Thomas Russo, a professor and chief of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo, told 2 On Your Side.

Dr. Russo added that people who are immunocompromised cannot get the vaccine, so by getting the recommended doses, you are also helping those who may not be able to get it.