The Daily How the Measles Outbreak Started
Apr 26, 2019
Sarah Maslin Nir, a New York City reporter for The New York Times, dives into the recent surge of measles cases in the U.S., highlighting its roots in ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities. She discusses vaccine hesitancy fueled by misinformation and personal stories from the well-being of the community. The dialogue touches on the extraordinary measures taken by health officials, including fines and bans. Tensions rise as public health intersects with personal beliefs, revealing the complex landscape of vaccination debates and cultural dynamics.
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Outbreak Origins
- The measles outbreak originated in Israel, spread from Ukraine, and was brought to Brooklyn by travelling Jews.
- Unvaccinated individuals visiting Ukraine for holidays contracted measles and carried it back to Israel, then to Brooklyn.
Measles Contagion
- Measles is highly contagious, infecting up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals exposed to it.
- Initial symptoms are mild, but the disease can lead to severe complications.
Community Spread
- The Hasidic community's close-knit nature and large families contributed to the rapid spread.
- Communal religious practices and frequent interactions facilitated transmission within the community.