Oz urges Americans to get measles vaccine amid outbreaks

CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz urged Americans to receive the measles vaccine as the CDC reports 733 confirmed cases this year and several states are experiencing outbreaks.

CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz urged Americans to receive the measles vaccine amid rising U.S. cases and state outbreaks. He said the vaccine is a clear solution and noted that coverage is included in core schedules administered through CMS programs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported 733 confirmed measles cases so far this year, with most cases occurring in people who were unvaccinated. Several states are reported to have ongoing outbreaks that extend back to last year. Reported details: - Dr. Mehmet Oz, the CMS administrator, urged people to get the measles vaccine during an appearance on CNN's "State of the Union." - The CDC has confirmed 733 measles cases in the U.S. this year; the agency reported that about 95 percent of those who contracted measles were unvaccinated and that roughly 3 percent were hospitalized. - Arizona, South Carolina and Utah are described as having outbreaks dating back to last year, with those states reporting a combined 1,410 cases. - Oz noted that CMS covers measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) shots through Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program and plans purchased on the Health Insurance Marketplace. Summary: Rising reported cases and state outbreaks have prompted federal officials to emphasize vaccination and to note public insurance coverage for MMR shots. In January, the U.S. reached 12 consecutive months of measles transmission, a key condition tied to the nation's elimination status. Undetermined at this time.