As of this year, the United States is witnessing a significant resurgence of measles, reaching the highest number of reported cases since the disease was declared eradicated in 2000. New York City alone has recorded 285 confirmed cases since last fall, prompting Mayor Alex Thompson to announce a “public health emergency” on April 9, 2019. Last year, the total cases across the country were only 372. This alarming increase is largely attributed to widespread vaccination fears and the growing anti-vaccination movement, as noted by various sources.
Measles is particularly concerning; it can infect up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus, according to the George Washington University’s online MPH program. However, the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella, is highly effective—offering a 97% success rate with two doses. The vaccine was first licensed in 1963, with significant outbreaks curtailed by the 1980s, but it wasn’t until 2000 that measles was officially declared eliminated.
How Did We Regress from Eradication to Outbreaks?
The answer is unfortunately straightforward: the rise of anti-vaccination sentiments.
It’s crucial to understand that immunization and vaccination are not synonymous. Immunization occurs when we develop resistance to a disease, whether through infection or vaccination. A vaccine contains weakened or inactive forms of a virus or bacteria, prompting our bodies to generate the necessary antibodies to fight off future infections. This preparation is essential for our immune systems to respond effectively when encountering the actual virus.
While some anti-vaxxers attribute their concerns to pharmaceutical companies or governmental oversight, the reality is that the vaccine development process is intricate and rigorously regulated. Dr. Emma Garcia from the FDA emphasizes that “the overwhelming scientific evidence supports vaccines as one of the safest and most effective measures to prevent individual illness and safeguard public health.” Vaccination not only protects individuals but also shields those who cannot be vaccinated, such as children with compromised immune systems due to illnesses like cancer.
The Vaccine Development Process
The process of creating a vaccine involves several critical steps. It starts with isolating natural or synthetic antigens that may help prevent or treat a disease. These antigens are then tested to confirm their effectiveness—many potential vaccine candidates do not progress beyond this stage due to ineffectiveness or safety concerns.
Once a vaccine candidate passes the initial tests, it enters clinical development, which involves submitting a detailed proposal to the FDA. This includes a summary of findings and outlines the testing methodology. There are three phases of human testing, each becoming increasingly stringent. Only after successfully completing these phases can a company apply for licensing, and it’s only after this extensive process that the vaccine can be manufactured and sold.
Quality control remains paramount post-licensure, ensuring that vaccines continue to meet safety and efficacy standards. Additional monitoring systems, such as the Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System and the Vaccine Safety Datalink, help maintain oversight of approved vaccines. It’s worth noting that the incidence of actual vaccine-related injuries is exceedingly low.
Vaccines: Safe and Effective
In contrast to the claims of the anti-vaccination movement, vaccines are proven to be safe and effective. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that most vaccine reactions are minor and temporary, such as a sore arm or mild fever. Serious side effects are rare and thoroughly investigated. The risk of suffering from a vaccine-preventable disease far outweighs the potential adverse reactions to vaccination.
However, the internet has facilitated the dissemination of misinformation about vaccines, leading to a rise in anti-vaccination sentiments. The George Washington University’s online MPH program notes that recent measles cases have emerged in states where parents can opt out of immunizations for personal or philosophical reasons, such as in Washington and Minnesota. These trends have contributed to outbreaks in communities, including South Carolina, where vaccine refusal is often justified by religious beliefs.
As misinformation proliferates, the risk of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles increases, jeopardizing the hard work that has gone into eradicating these diseases. The current outbreak in New York and similar incidents in Washington state serve as stark reminders that measles is no longer eradicated in the United States.
Take Action: Vaccinate Your Children
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In summary, vaccination is a critical public health measure that protects individuals and communities against preventable diseases. The misinformation surrounding vaccines can lead to severe health crises, as seen with the resurgence of measles. It is vital to rely on accurate information and the advice of health professionals to ensure the safety and health of our families.
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