Kroger’s Dr. Marc Watkins weighs in on the importance of vaccinations amid measles outbreak
In the wake of a measles outbreak in the United States, Drug Store News sat down with Kroger Health’s chief medical officer Dr. Marc Watkins to discuss the importance of staying up to date on vaccinations.
Watkins noted that measles is one of the most contagious, yet preventable viruses, and outbreaks can spread rapidly among unvaccinated individuals, putting vulnerable populations—such as infants, pregnant individuals and immunocompromised patients at serious risk.
Drug Store News: What are the symptoms of the measles?
Dr. Marc Watkins: Measles is a highly contagious virus that presents with symptoms such as a high fever (about 104°F or 40°C), cough, runny nose and conjunctivitis (also known as pink eye). These symptoms are often referred to as the "three C’s": cough, conjunctivitis and coryza (also known as a stuffy and runny nose).
A red, blotchy rash typically appears a few days after the initial symptoms. Measles is considered a severe illness because it can suppress the immune system, wiping out about 60% of a person’s antibodies, leaving them vulnerable to other infections.
[Related: Video: 6 minutes with Kroger Health’s Colleen Lindholz]
DSN: What is the critical role of the MMR vaccine in preventing outbreaks?
MW: The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine plays a crucial role in preventing measles outbreaks. Before 2020, measles was considered as being eradicated in the United States due to widespread vaccination efforts. One dose of MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles, 78% effective against mumps and 97% effective against rubella. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles and 88% effective against mumps.
The MMR vaccine is highly effective at providing immunity, and when about 95% of the population is vaccinated, herd immunity helps protect those who cannot receive the vaccine, such as immunocompromised individuals and young children who are at the highest risk of severe illness and complications.
DSN: What does the public need to know about the importance of staying up to date on vaccinations?
MW: Staying up to date on all vaccines is vital in preventing serious illnesses, hospitalizations and deaths. Unvaccinated individuals are the most susceptible to contracting and spreading infectious diseases, leading to outbreaks and unintended consequences for the broader community.
[Related: Video: Dr. Marc Watkins of Kroger Health discusses RSV vaccines]
DSN: What steps can all individuals and communities take to stay protected against diseases like the measles?
MW: To protect against measles and other infectious diseases, individuals should prioritize vaccination, maintain regular communication with healthcare provider and practice good hygiene. If a person isn’t feeling well, it is important to stay home and avoid contact with others. Seeking timely medical care and maintaining overall health can help reduce the spread of contagious illnesses.