A small lapse in vaccinations can have serious consequences. The recent outbreak of measles at UC Davis Medical Center’s emergency department has put individuals at risk of developing this highly contagious disease. The most alarming fact is that those who are unvaccinated or have an unknown vaccination status are the most vulnerable.
Measles is a viral infection that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be contracted by touching a contaminated surface and then touching one’s mouth, nose or eyes. The virus can survive on surfaces for several hours, making it highly contagious.
The outbreak at UC Davis Medical Center’s emergency department serves as an important reminder of the importance of vaccinations. According to health experts, those who were at the emergency department between the dates of (insert dates) and are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status are at risk of developing measles within the next seven to 21 days.
Measles is a serious disease that can have severe complications, especially for infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. It can lead to pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death in some cases. And the most concerning part is that it is entirely preventable with a simple measles vaccine.
Vaccines are our best defense against preventable diseases like measles. They work by triggering our immune system to produce antibodies that fight off the virus if we are exposed to it. This makes it difficult for the virus to spread and protects not only the individual but also those around them, especially those who cannot be vaccinated for various reasons.
However, there has been a rise in the number of people choosing not to vaccinate themselves or their children. This hesitancy is often fueled by misinformation and myths about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. But the truth is that vaccines are rigorously tested and monitored for safety before they are approved for use.
The measles vaccine, in particular, is one of the most effective vaccines available, with a success rate of 97%. This means that out of 100 people who receive the vaccine, only three may still be susceptible to measles. And in most cases, even if the vaccinated individual does contract measles, the symptoms are milder and less severe.
It is essential to understand that vaccines not only protect us but also those who are unable to get vaccinated, such as infants. This concept is known as herd immunity. When a significant portion of the population is vaccinated, it creates a barrier that prevents the disease from spreading, protecting vulnerable individuals.
So, if you were at UC Davis Medical Center’s emergency department during the mentioned dates and are unsure of your vaccination status, it is crucial to get in touch with your doctor immediately. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends getting the measles vaccine within 72 hours of exposure to the virus to prevent infection.
And for those who are hesitant to get vaccinated, it is essential to understand the impact of not getting vaccinated. Choosing not to vaccinate not only puts oneself at risk but also others around us. It is a responsibility we have towards our community to protect each other from preventable diseases.
In conclusion, the recent measles outbreak at UC Davis Medical Center’s emergency department serves as a wake-up call for the importance of vaccinations. Those who are unvaccinated or have unknown vaccination status are at risk of developing this highly contagious disease within the next seven to 21 days. Vaccines are our best defense against preventable diseases like measles, and it is crucial to get vaccinated to protect ourselves and those around us. Let us work together to create a safer and healthier community by choosing to vaccinate.
