Forecasted Size of Measles Outbreaks Associated With Vaccination Exemptions for Schoolchildren

Key Points Question What is the expected size of measles outbreaks in Texas at current (ie, 2018) and decreased vaccination rates? Findings In this decision analytical model study of metropolitan statistical areas in Texas, 1 in 20 measles introductions was forecasted to be associated with outbreaks of more than 400 cases in the Austin and Dallas metropolitan areas, according to 1000 simulated outbreaks in each metropolitan area; 64% of cases were forecasted to occur in children for whom a vaccine has been refused and 36% in others (ie, bystanders). Increased vaccine exemptions were forecasted to be associated with increases in the expected size of measles outbreaks. Meaning The 2018 vaccination rates in multiple metropolitan areas may permit large measles outbreaks, which could infect not only vaccine refusers but also other members of the population.

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