The physicians and physician assistants at Willows Pediatrics are closely following the recent cases of measles in the United States. The measles outbreak that is linked to Disneyland has now been reported in 14 states. To date no cases have been reported in Connecticut for 2015.
The evidence is clear that the best way to protect children from measles is to follow the recommended immunization schedule. The measles outbreak is a stark reminder of this. All of us at Willows Pediatrics are strong advocates for keeping children healthy by having all families follow the immunization schedule approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics for their infants, children and adolescents.
As the measles outbreak linked to Disneyland continues to spread, pediatricians are deeply concerned about the children who have been infected, and those who are at risk because they have not been vaccinated. The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly urges parents to make sure their children have received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. While it is best to get the vaccine as soon as your child reaches the recommended age, it is never too late to get your children caught up so they can receive the vaccine and be fully protected.
We know from many repeated studies that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective. It is in fact one of the most effective vaccines we have. And as the measles outbreak has shown, this virus is incredibly contagious. If you have not been immunized against measles and come near an infected person, you have a 90 percent chance of getting measles.
When measles was more common in the U.S., hundreds of children died from this virus every year. The fact that this disease has resurfaced widely for the first time in more than a decade has prompted pediatricians to reinforce the fact that vaccines work. Delaying your child’s vaccines, or refusing the vaccine, leaves your child vulnerable to this invisible threat. And puts other children in the community at risk. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to speak to us – we are here to help.
How to Protect Your Child During a Measles Outbreak:
www.healthychildren.org