

Adolescent Turtles, Measles, Lab-Grown Diamonds
16 snips Apr 2, 2025
Join infectious disease epidemiologist Jessica Malaty Rivera as she sheds light on the recent measles resurgence linked to declining vaccination rates. She tackles misconceptions about the MMR vaccine and underscores the importance of herd immunity. The conversation also touches on the fascinating journey of juvenile sea turtles from their nests to the ocean, highlighting conservation efforts. Plus, discover the intriguing differences between lab-grown diamonds and their natural counterparts, unveiling ethical concerns and technological advancements in the diamond industry.
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Baby Sea Turtles' Lost Years
- Juvenile sea turtles actively swim and navigate, rather than just drifting.
- This directional movement has significant implications for conservation efforts, especially after environmental disasters.
Measles Resurgence
- Measles is highly contagious, with nine out of ten unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus becoming infected.
- It's a respiratory virus that can linger in the air for hours, posing a significant risk to vulnerable populations.
Declining Vaccination Rates and Measles Outbreaks
- Recent measles outbreaks are linked to declining vaccination rates, particularly in some communities where rates have fallen below the 95% threshold.
- This drop in vaccination rates creates vulnerable populations susceptible to rapid measles spread.