This Podcast Will Kill You Special Episode: Dr. Adam Ratner & Booster Shots
May 13, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatric infectious disease specialist and author, sheds light on the urgent lessons of measles and vaccine hesitancy. He draws from his experience during the New York City outbreak, emphasizing the virus's severe health risks and the importance of vaccination. Ratner explores the historical disparities in measles mortality rates, especially among marginalized communities, and discusses the impact of misinformation on public perception. Tune in for a passionate call to action for community health and education.
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Dr. Ratner’s Measles Frontline Experience
- Dr. Adam Ratner experienced a surge in measles cases during the 2018-2019 NYC outbreak firsthand.
- This shifted his perspective on vaccines, anti-vaccine movement, and clinical care of measles patients.
Measles' Dangerous Infectiousness
- Measles is the most contagious virus known and spreads rapidly in unvaccinated groups.
- It causes significant complications including pneumonia, encephalitis, and death in a notable minority of cases.
Measles as a Public Health Bellwether
- Measles outbreaks reveal vulnerable communities with low vaccine uptake or trust.
- Measles acts as a bellwether signaling broader public health risks and potential resurgence of other preventable diseases.
