Measles is a preventable disease that causes high fever, coughing, and skin rashes. It was declared extinct in the last decade, but the recent rise of pushback against vaccines resulted in its resurgence. If you’ve heard of the outbreak of this virus, you may be worried about how it could affect your family. To keep you and your family protected, here is everything primary care providers want you to know about measles and immunizations.

Why Measles Is on the Rise

Before the measles vaccine was introduced in 1963, the U.S. saw 4 million cases and 500 deaths caused by measles every year. The vaccine was effective because it prevented those immune from displaying symptoms even if they were exposed. As a result, the disease was deemed eliminated by the year 2000. However, a rise in the anti-vaccination movement caused the disease to reappear all over the world.

Worldwide rates of measles have risen 300% as of 2018. In the U.S., cases are mostly popping up in insular communities that share skepticism regarding vaccines.

How to Protect Your Family

In some cases, the illness resolves on its own, but 40% of patients experience serious complications, including pneumonia and swelling of the brain. For kids under the age of five, primary care providers note that these complications are more likely and can be deadly. The virus is highly contagious and there’s no available treatment other than managing symptoms. 

Virtually all primary care providers agree that the best defense against measles is the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. While side effects such as rashes, high temperatures, and loss of appetite may occur, these disappear after two to three days. Severe complications often cited by anti-vaccine activists, which include brain damage and seizures, happen so infrequently that they aren’t considered a result from immunization.

Mayer Clinic in Fairbanks, AK, is dedicated to giving patients the information they need to protect themselves and their families. Along with providing vaccination counseling their primary care providers also perform a variety of other services. This includes preventative services, women’s health care, diabetes management, surgical procedures, and asthma or allergy care. Visit them online to learn more about what they do, or call (907) 457-5050 to schedule an appointment.