Measles, a potentially deadly infectious disease, is making a comeback across the country. Major cities, including Western Pennsylvania, are experiencing outbreaks. In Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, health officials have reported cases of this dangerous disease, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Measles symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose with red, watery eyes, and a rash that appears days after the initial symptoms. New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago have all seen outbreaks of measles. However, Allegheny County has reported fewer cases than other major cities.
Vaccination rates in Allegheny County have been declining in recent years due to general vaccination fears and misinformation linking vaccines to autism. This claim has been debunked by experts like Dr. Barbara Nightingale, the Medical Director for the Allegheny County Health Department. Severe complications of measles can include pneumonia and brain infections.
Dr. Nightingale stresses the importance of getting vaccinated to protect yourself and your children from measles. The Allegheny County Health Department offers measles vaccines and encourages residents to take advantage of this preventive measure. Vaccination is a simple and effective way to safeguard against measles and other preventable diseases.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has noted a nationwide decline in measles vaccination rates. They attribute this decline to general vaccination fears and misinformation linking vaccines to autism.
It’s important for individuals to be vigilant about their health during this time when measles is making a comeback across the country.
