The Daily The Growing Danger of Measles
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Mar 12, 2025 
Teddy Rosenbluth, a health reporter at The New York Times, delves into the alarming measles outbreak in Texas, where over 200 have been infected, resulting in tragic fatalities. He highlights the role of declining vaccination rates, particularly in a Mennonite community known for avoiding shots. The conversation addresses the erosion of trust in public health following the COVID pandemic and its impact on vaccination efforts. Rosenbluth stresses the importance of herd immunity while navigating the tension between public health advocacy and personal choice.
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Visit to the Epicenter
- Teddy Rosenbluth visited Gaines County, Texas, to observe the measles outbreak firsthand.
- He shadowed Dr. Wendell Parkey and witnessed the impact of measles on an 8-year-old girl.
The 8-Year-Old Girl
- An 8-year-old unvaccinated girl with measles exhibited a vacant stare and did not react to a painful injection.
- This demonstrated the severity of her illness and how it differed from her usual energetic self.
Measles Symptoms and Severity
- Measles symptoms include runny nose, cough, fever, crusty eyes, and a rash spreading from head to toe.
- While most recover within weeks, complications like pneumonia, encephalitis, and even death can occur.