We don’t think of measles much in this country, thanks to a robust routine vaccination program. But, outbreaks do occur. In Minnesota, a measles outbreak has recently struck a large Somali community who are wary of the safety of the measles vaccine. The majority of these Somali kids with measles were not vaccinated. Health experts believe that the disease was brought to Minnesota by an infected child who had been in Kenya in February. The vast majority of measles cases in the U.S. can be traced to a traveler who brought the virus here from abroad.
Measles Rash
Fortunately, none of the infected youngsters have died, but several have been hospitalized. Measles can be a serious disease. Two hundred thousand deaths occur from measles throughout the world each year.
Why Are Somalis Wary of Vaccination?
Somalis are concerned that the measles vaccine can cause autism, and have met with Andrew Wakefield, an infamous British research who published a link between autism and measles (MMR) vaccines in one of the world’s most prestigious medical journals. His findings have been discredited by the scientific community and the journal retracted the scientific paper, a rare and serious sanction.
Is There Truth to an MMR-Autism Link?
There is no scientific evidence that the measles vaccine – or any vaccine or its components – causes autism. This hypothesis has been rigorously and scientifically studie, and no evidence of a connection has been found.
What Do Doctors Recommend?
Get vaccinated. Of course, no vaccine is 100% safe and effective. However, the risk of the MMR vaccine is miniscule and the risk of remaining unvaccinated is much higher. Common sense dictates to choose the option that has the least risk and maximal benefit.
Is Measles an Issue for International Travelers?
Absolutely. Measles is common in the developing world. In addition to protecting yourself against hepatitis, yellow fever and malaria, make sure you are current with your routine vaccinations also.
