CDC: 2011 was worst measles year in US in 15 years - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

ATLANTA (WKOW) -- Federal health officials say last year was the worst year for measles in the U.S. in 15 years.

There were 222 cases of measles reported in 2011. Most of the cases were imported -- either by visiting foreigners or by U.S. residents who picked up the virus overseas.

Health officials say outbreaks in the U.S. have been fueled by low vaccination rates in Europe and elsewhere.

There were no deaths in the U.S. but about a third of the people were hospitalized. At least two-thirds of the Americans who got the measles hadn't been vaccinated.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued the report Thursday. In a typical year, there are 50 to 60 cases of measles. The previous worst year was 1996, with 508 cases.

For more information on measles prevention in the U.S., click here.