Fact Check: "Death rate from measles is 1 to 2 per 1,000 infections."
What We Know
The claim that the death rate from measles is between 1 to 2 per 1,000 infections is supported by data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). According to a CDC report, the estimated death rate for measles is indeed 1 to 2 deaths per 1,000 cases. This statistic reflects the serious nature of measles, which can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as young children and those with weakened immune systems.
In addition, a study published in the National Institutes of Health's PubMed Central indicates that approximately 1 in 1,000 cases of measles results in death, corroborating the CDC's figures (Chovatiya et al.). This aligns with the historical context of measles mortality rates before widespread vaccination efforts were implemented.
Analysis
The sources supporting the claim are credible and authoritative. The CDC is a leading public health institution in the United States, providing data that is widely accepted in the medical community. Their statistics are based on extensive research and historical data, making them a reliable source for public health information.
The study by Chovatiya et al. also adds to the credibility of the claim by providing peer-reviewed evidence that supports the CDC's findings. The consistency of these statistics across multiple reputable sources strengthens the validity of the claim.
While some sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), provide general information about measles and its complications, they do not specifically quantify the death rate in the same manner as the CDC and the cited study (WHO). However, they do emphasize that measles remains a significant cause of death among children globally, which underscores the importance of vaccination and public health measures.
Conclusion
The claim that the death rate from measles is 1 to 2 per 1,000 infections is True. This conclusion is based on reliable data from the CDC and corroborated by peer-reviewed research, indicating that the mortality rate associated with measles infections falls within this range.
Sources
- PDF Measles Data and Statistics - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Measles Cases and Outbreaks | Measles (Rubeola) | CDC
- Inpatient morbidity and mortality of measles in the United States
- U.S. Measles Tracker | International Vaccine Access Center
- Measles - World Health Organization
- Measles - Wikipedia
- Measles - World Health Organization
- What you need to know about measles - World Health Organization
