The podcast delves into the rising cases of measles in Canada, Europe, and the U.S., questioning the significance of low vaccine rates. It explores the historical impact of measles and the importance of widespread vaccination. The episode also uncovers the origin of vaccine hesitancy, regulations for MMR vaccines in schools, and strategies to promote vaccine uptake amidst the measles resurgence.
Measles resurgence in Europe and the U.S. raises concerns for Canadians due to potential spread of disease.
Vaccine hesitancy fueled by disinformation challenges maintaining high MMR vaccination rates for herd immunity.
Deep dives
Measles Resurgence in Canada
The World Health Organization and the U.S. Center for Disease Control have warned about the resurgence of measles in Europe and the U.S., raising concerns for Canadians. Measles, a highly contagious and potentially dangerous illness, is showing signs of spreading in parts of Canada, with cases being reported in Ontario. The disease can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, blindness, and encephalitis, highlighting the importance of vaccinations to prevent its spread.
History and Impact of Measles Vaccination
The measles vaccine, developed in 1963, marked a significant milestone in public health by significantly reducing the prevalence of the disease. The MMR vaccine, containing measles, mumps, and rubella components, played a crucial role in eradicating social disparities and ensuring widespread immunity. Vaccine hesitancy, fueled by disinformation and a fraudulent study linking MMR to autism, remains a challenge in promoting vaccination uptake.
Herd Immunity and Vaccination Importance
Maintaining high vaccination coverage, around 95%, is vital to achieving herd immunity against measles. With vaccine hesitancy leading to declining MMR vaccination rates, the risk of measles resurgence poses a threat to public health. Education, transparency, and proactive public health communication are essential to combat misinformation and ensure adequate protection against preventable diseases like measles.
Canada has already seen more cases of measles in 2024 than in all of 2023. And rates of the disease in Europe and the United States are also rising. Meanwhile, vaccine uptake for the MMR shot, which protects against measles, has collapsed in recent years.
So how worried should we be about what is—for now—still just a handful of cases? Why have vaccine rates for a decades-old and proven vaccine fallen so quickly? What do you need to know about a disease that, just a few years ago, was all but eradicated in Canada?
GUEST: Dr. Raywat Deonandan, epidemiologist, associate professor at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Health Sciences
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