Slate News What Next | A Measles Outbreak and Wake-Up Call
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Feb 19, 2025 Dr. Adam Ratner, a pediatrician in NYC and author of "Booster Shots," discusses the alarming measles outbreak in Texas, where cases skyrocketed from two to 48. He sheds light on the challenges of combating vaccine misinformation and the importance of community vaccination rates. Dr. Ratner emphasizes how historical vaccination successes are under threat from rising exemptions, especially post-COVID-19. The conversation highlights the urgent need for public education to counter misinformation and ensure the protection of vulnerable populations.
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West Texas Measles Outbreak
- A measles outbreak in West Texas started with two cases in Gaines County.
- It quickly spread to 48 cases, mostly among an unvaccinated Mennonite community.
Misinformation Hinders Vaccination Efforts
- Measles is highly contagious, making outbreaks concerning.
- Online misinformation hinders public health efforts, like vaccination drives.
NYC Measles Outbreak
- The 2018-2019 New York City measles outbreak originated in under-vaccinated communities.
- Despite a high overall vaccination rate, these pockets allowed measles to spread.
