Thursday Thoughts: Why is There a Measles Outbreak?

Thursday Thoughts: Why is There a Measles Outbreak?

Within the last few weeks, the news has been reporting that there has been a recent measles outbreak all over the United States. This brings the question of why is this happening, and what can we do to prevent this from spreading. Continue reading for more information on the measles.

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious disease spread through droplets in the air. It is easily spread through coughing or sneezing. Symptoms of measles include a fever, dry cough, sore throat, red eyes, flat blotches of a skin rash, and Koplik’s spots. If you think you or someone you know may have these symptoms please immediately contact medical personnel. Measles needs to be treated or it can have devastating impacts on both the individual and any populations exposed to the disease.

How Can Measles and Other Diseases Be Prevented?

Measles and other preventable diseases have vaccines. Vaccines are made from a sample of the disease that is introduced into the body in low quantities so that the immune system can build antibodies to that virus. By getting vaccinated, people are not only protected against the vaccine but act as a barrier to spreading that disease.

Do Vaccines Cause Autism?

Let us be clear when we say that there is no evidence of any correlation between autism and getting vaccinated. The researcher who wrote that paper admitted to faking the entire paper and misrepresenting fake data. Please get all children vaccinated.

Final Thoughts

Have you gotten the measles vaccine? Are you up to date on all of your vaccines? If you are not sure, you can check with your physician at your yearly appointment, or call their office. It is important to remember that getting vaccinated not only protects you but also everyone else by not spreading those germs. If you have any comments or questions, please write them in the comments section below!