Abstract
Measles has re-emerged as a significant public health concern, with an estimated 10.3 million global cases and more than 100,000 deaths in 2023, primarily among young children. In the United States, measles incidence has risen sharply due to declining vaccination rates and increased international travel, resulting in a growing number of locally transmitted outbreaks. Faith community nurses, who play key roles in health education, advocacy, and illness prevention, are uniquely positioned to support community-level efforts that reduce measles transmission. This article addresses key aspects of measles epidemiology, clinical presentation, and complications, emphasizing the virus’s high communicability and potential for severe outcomes, including pneumonia and encephalitis. Current vaccination guidelines and contraindications are outlined. By increasing awareness and promoting evidence-based prevention strategies, faith community nurses can support public health efforts to reduce measles morbidity and mortality.
First Page
3