Measles is back—and we must be ready
In an article on KevinMD, Janet Jokela, MD, MPH, MACP, recalls her own experience seeing a suspected measles case and encourages physicians to stay vigilant.
In a recent article, Janet Jokela, MD, MPH, MACP, senior associate dean of engagement at Carle Illinois College of Medicine in Urbana, Ill., shared her reflections on a case of measles from her early days in medicine and how they relate to the understanding of the virus today.
Dr. Jokela recalled being called to the ED in the middle of the night for a suspected measles case. A potential outbreak was narrowly avoided thanks to fast action and collaboration with the local health department. Dr. Jokela wrote that the U.S. is currently in an unusual situation with over 1,000 measles cases reported across 31 states and three confirmed measles-related deaths in 2025, including two pediatric fatalities.
She cited the drop in MMR vaccination rates as a cause of this outbreak and encouraged physicians to stay vigilant and lead with knowledge and empathy when discussing vaccines with patients.
Read Dr. Jokela's article to learn more.