Caitlin Jetolina

Caroline Katherman, a health reporter at the Orlando Sentinel, and Caitlin Jetolina, an epidemiologist and publisher of Your Local Epidemiologist, dive into the alarming resurgence of measles, particularly in Florida. They discuss how vaccine hesitancy is fueling outbreaks, highlighted by case spikes in schools. The state’s surgeon general's hands-off approach raises eyebrows, as parents grapple with balancing their choices against public health risks. The episode explores the broader implications of low vaccination rates and the challenges ahead for community immunity.

Caitlin Jetolina, an epidemiologist and data scientist, delves into the recent measles outbreak in West Texas, marking the first U.S. measles death since 2015. She discusses the alarming rise in cases, particularly among unvaccinated children, and highlights the serious complications of measles, including pneumonia and brain swelling. Jetolina emphasizes the vital importance of vaccination, especially the MMR vaccine, in protecting vulnerable populations and addresses the challenges posed by growing anti-vaccination sentiments.