Babies Vulnerable Window
Several cases of measles have broken out in various locations; therefore, the medical community has emphasized the significance of a certain population group which cannot get inoculated as it is highly vulnerable.
Those babies below one year who lack the required age qualification to be vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. In this instance, these babies are entirely dependent on herd immunity, making them highly vulnerable to acquiring any illness if the vaccination rate goes below a certain threshold.
“The baby is helpless because its immunity depends on the immune state of other individuals,” says Elena Ruiz, MD, an infectious disease pediatrician. “It is inevitable that it happens or the consequences would be dire.”
Why Measles Is So Dangerous
The measles virus is not like any other common childhood disease; instead, it is one of the most contagious viral diseases around. The virus can be spread by air after the infected person leaves the area, but the virus could still be viable for several hours.
Babies are highly prone to developing complications due to this virus. Among the complications that could result from the measles virus are pneumonia and encephalitis. In severe cases, the virus could kill the child.
“Measles are not taken seriously anymore because there are vaccines now available,” says Dr. Marcus Lee, an expert at the National Pediatric Health Alliance. “However, babies could potentially die from the virus.”
Falling Vaccination Rates Fuel Outbreaks
In addition to several others, one of the key reasons behind the onset of epidemics, according to health authorities, is the decrease in the frequency of vaccinations. Misinformation and growing reluctance towards vaccines among people have been causing gaps in immunization, thus making it easier for the disease to spread.
“Weaker immunity against the MMR vaccine makes such areas prone to having an epidemic, considering how easily measles can spread and cause an epidemic.”
“The level of herd immunity needs at least 95% vaccination,” according to epidemiologist Sarah Chen. “And we will not be able to achieve this figure, and hence outbreaks are certain—together with the deaths of many babies.”
Parents Face Difficult Choices
Parents of infants have encountered several issues due to the resurgence of measles. Their kids can no longer interact with any individual outside their home; even meeting someone requires them to be in perfect health.
“I’m definitely scared,” stated Maria Gonzalez, whose child is only six months old. “He needs to explore the world, but you need to shield him from all.”
There are some experts who suggest early vaccination depending on specific circumstances, but such instances could come with their disadvantages too.
Courtesy Of ajlgumpal ( Flickr CC0)Protecting the Most Vulnerable
According to the experts, the most effective way of ensuring the protection of the infants is by conducting vaccination within the community. This is because of the reason that when many people get vaccinated against the disease, the virus will have difficulties in replicating itself.
“This process of vaccination applies not only to the individuals themselves but also to the entire society,” noted Dr. Ruiz.
Given the high number of people suffering from this disease, it has become important for the medical practitioners to be vaccinated. When it comes to the young babies, who are yet to get their vaccinations, it becomes more concerning.
By William Hernandez
Journalist for Vlixx Magazine, reporting on news from around the world, ensuring timely, accurate, and detailed information to keep the public informed and educated.
Sources:
abcnews: Too young for the MMR shot, babies become ‘sitting ducks’ in measles outbreaks
scrippsnews: ‘Babies become sitting ducks’: Measles resurges in South Carolina amid anti-vaccine push
Featured and Inset Image Courtesy of Eric C Snowdeal III Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of ajlgumpal Flickr Page- Creative Commons License
