The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have issued new travel warnings as measles cases continue to surge.  While no cases of the infectious disease have been reported on the island so far, a local health expert is weighing in on climbing cases, amid other vaccine-preventable illnesses like whooping cough make a comeback. 

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases – and is surging worldwide. But just how contagious is it? The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area. In the US alone, over 1,000 cases have been reported this year.

On Guam, however, there's good news.

Chief medical officer at the Department of Public Health and Social Services Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero says there have been no cases locally. “Zero, zero, zero," he quantified, "and hopefully, it’ll stay that way.”

Measles spreads easily from person to person through coughing and sneezing.  Symptoms include rashes, runny noses, and fever — especially dangerous for pregnant women and children. As for the seriousness of the illness, Dr. Bob said in no uncertain terms, “Measles - I wouldn’t wish that on my enemy.”

Texas has reported the majority of US cases, accounting for two out of three reported infections. Just last month, the state reported its second child death from measles, an unvaccinated 8-year-old.

And while the CDC says vaccination is the best protection, a new study shows childhood vaccination rates for measles, mumps, and rubella have been dropping in many parts of the US since COVID-19.

“We’re making a concerted effort of trying to make sure kids get vaccinated. I tell moms and dads when the kids are first born about measles — what to do, how to prevent it, and making sure everybody in the household — including them — is up to date with their vaccines," the physician told KUAM News.

In the meantime, as cases rise globally, the CDC has issued new travel warnings. The agency urges travelers to check their vaccination status or consider delaying travel, as cases have emerged in airports and even airplanes. And while measles is making headlines, pertussis is also on the rise.

Dr. Bob offered simple advice, saying, “See your doc, see your children’s doctor before you travel, at least about three weeks before you travel. Iives it time for the vaccine to work.”