May 9, 2024

Measles on the Rise

The U.S. is facing a concerning measles outbreak, with 131 cases reported from 21 states as of May 2. Eight outbreaks account for 69% of infections, primarily affecting the unvaccinated. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air and can lead to serious complications including otitis media, pneumonia and encephalitis.


Though not seasonal, it often peaks during travel periods like spring break. The best prevention is to stay up to date with all vaccinations, as travel can put you at greater risk. Read more here.

Latest Vaccine Resources

Vaccine Voices Episode 2:

"I Don't Want to Upset My Family"


In this 20-minute episode from our Vaccine Voices audio series, witness how Motivational Interviewing techniques can address vaccine hesitancy influenced by family pressure. Follow along as the Director of Nursing converses with Janice, a resident refusing flu and COVID-19 vaccines, potentially due to her family's stance.

This powerful scenario is part of our 6-part series exploring real-life situations and expert strategies for fostering vaccine acceptance through Motivational Interviewing in long-term care settings. Visit our Vaccine Voices page now to access this insightful episode and the full series.

Promote Vaccine Acceptance with WAVE


IPRO's WAVE acronym encourages providers to ask "What About Vaccines?" at Every patient encounter opening a vaccine dialogue protects both patients and staff. The WAVE webpage offers valuable resources including:



  • Updated CDC vaccine recommendations for COVID-19, flu, pneumonia and more
  • Billing and payment guides for respiratory vaccines across care settings
  • Ideas for nursing homes, hospitals and others to educate and promote vaccines
  • Campaign tools including printable posters, social media posts, videos and podcasts


Remember to WAVE every time to improve vaccination rates.

COVID-19 Snapshot: Latest Recommendations

Check Your Community's Stats
Who's Considered Up To Date?

Unpacking the Measles Surge: Q & A

Q: Which travelers are at risk of measles?


A: Travelers who have not been fully vaccinated against measles or have not had the disease previously are at risk of infection when visiting areas with ongoing measles outbreaks.

Q: Why are some fully vaccinated people getting measles?


A: While two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective at preventing measles, breakthrough infections can still occur in a small percentage (approximately 5% of total) of fully vaccinated individuals, especially during widespread outbreaks with high viral circulation.


Q: Why is there more measles activity?


A: U.S. MMR coverage among kindergarteners is now below the 95% coverage target (much lower in some communities) and is decreasing. At the same time, global measles activity is increasing, meaning more chances of an unvaccinated person infected with measles abroad returning to the U.S.

Upcoming Office Hours

IP3-Office Hours


Don't miss our lively IP3 group chat, happening every Thursday at 11am ET. Hosted by infection preventionists Melanie Ronda, MSN, RN and Mary Ellen Casey, MSN, RN. Join us to share new ideas, discover innovative approaches, and collaborate with your fellow IPs.

NHSN Updates


The IPRO QIN-QIO is hosting a 30-minute, bi-weekly chat to discuss various topics surrounding NHSN including official NHSN updates, reminders about upcoming changes, and answers to our most commonly received provider questions. Bring your questions and concerns and learn to better navigate NSHN. Register here.

Stay informed about vaccine updates:


  • Visit our WAVE page to access up-to-date resources to support your efforts

Keep the learning going:


  • Visit our calendar to register for upcoming events
  • Access on-demand training with IPRO Learn!

For questions or technical assistance:


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The IPRO QIN-QIO works to ensure high-quality, safe health care in New England, New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, and the District of Columbia.
This material was prepared by the IPRO QIN-QIO, a Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization, under contract with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Views expressed in this document do not necessarily reflect the official views or policy of CMS or HHS, and any reference to a specific product or entity herein does not constitute endorsement of that product or entity by CMS or HHS. 12SOW-IPRO-QIN-T1-AA-21-435