Measles outbreak in New Mexico spreads to Texas

I recently read that my state, New Mexico, had more cases of measles diagnosed in 2024 than the entire US reported in 2023.

I understand that some are afraid of vaccinations. I was born in a time when vaccinations were not yet available for some diseases. As a toddler, I had a close brush with death from polio. My brother was deaf in one ear due to mumps, so I have a different perspective.

If you are a parent who fears vaccination, I implore you to discuss the issue with a pediatrician. Reconsider.

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DrWatson · 70-79, M

When I was two years old, the Pertussis vaccine almost killed me.

But I realize that I was the exception.

My mother made sure I got my polio shots. I got the MMR shot years later.

I have had conversations with doctors about whether subsequent vaccines are similar to the Pertussis one and pose a risk to me. They have assured me that they are not.

I have gladly gone for the vaccines for Shingles and Covid. I have gotten my Tetanus and Flu shots.

But, on the advice the doctor gave my parents back in 1954, I have never gotten a Pertussis booster.

And I think of my mother-in-law, who contracted Rubella while pregnant and gave birth to a deaf child (my sister-in-law). This was about a year before the Rubella vaccine became available.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@DrWatson That era was definitely a roll of the dice where disease was concerned.

FreddieUK · 70-79, M

@DrWatson What a sensible and well thought through position you have come to. You checked with those who actually know what they are talking about and considered the balance of harms.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@DrWatson @DrWatson My college room mate was blinded by too much oxygen administered after her premature delivery required an incubator. Six months later the oxygen was recognized as the cause.

Roll of the dice.

DrWatson · 70-79, M

@Mamapolo2016 I was also premature -- by six weeks. I was kept in the hospital. My parents told me that what the doctors put me in was technically not an incubator, and I never ask for details. I got the impression that my parents were aware of the possible risk too much O2 could bring and that they were constantly nagging the doctors about being careful.

Mamapolo2016 · F

@DrWatson Your theme song should be “I feel lucky”!

DrWatson · 70-79, M

@Mamapolo2016 Very much so! Somehow, I managed to get started in this world while remaining intact!