Measles Deaths Down Worldwide

Between 2000 and 2007 worldwide deaths from measles dropped by 74 percent. The number of reported deaths decreased from 750,000 to 197,000, according to U.S. and U.N. officials. 

In eastern Mediterranean countries measles deaths decreased by 90 percent, the result of increased awareness and vaccination campaigns in hard-to-reach regions. According to officials, more then twice the number of children were vaccinated in 2007 as in 2006. Clearly, the vaccination outreach worked and showed the power of public health efforts. 

Originally reported by the United Press International.    

Measles Vaccine No Longer Linked to Autism

Parents of small children have one less thing to worry about today; a recent study found no link between the measles vaccine and autism. The study was conducted at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. Based on the study's findings, researchers agree there is no relationship between the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine and autism. However, other researchers are quick to point out the study only clears the concern surrounding the MMR vaccine and other vaccines still need to be tested extensively.  

Even though the scientific community has not cleared all vaccines, it is at least safe for parents to vaccinate their children for measles, which has killed 400 to 500 people annually before the vaccine was introduced in 1963. 

(Originally reported by U.S. News and World Report.)