The Low Chances of Getting Measles: Vaccination and Its Importance

Measles, a highly contagious and potentially deadly viral infection, is now a rare occurrence in the United States. Despite this, understanding the chances of getting measles and the importance of vaccination remains crucial. This article explores the current statistics, personal stories, and the role of vaccines in preventing this disease.

The Low Risk of Getting Measles

It is important to note that the likelihood of contracting measles has significantly decreased due to widespread vaccination practices. According to recent data, only 48 cases of measles were reported in the United States in 2023, and some of these individuals had received the MMR vaccine. Since 2015, no one has died from the measles in America.

For those who are vaccinated, the chance of getting measles is extremely low. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is highly effective. In this case, the story of my family highlights the importance of ensuring that everyone receives the correct vaccine. In 1992, my sister contracted measles, but it turned out that the batch of the MMR vaccine she received was a fake. Despite this, she was never notified to get a new vaccine because it was a costly issue for the health insurance company. Fortunately, the odds of contracting measles from a fake batch are so small that the situation resolved itself. This true story emphasizes the need for vigilance in ensuring the integrity of vaccines.

Measles: A Highly Contagious and Deadly Disease

While measles is often considered a mild disease, it can be highly contagious and life-threatening. According to Roald Dahl, a famous author, and medical advocate, measles can turn into a deadly condition such as measles encephalitis. This condition still has no known cure, as was the case with his niece, Olivia, who passed away from measles in 1962.

The importance of vaccination is underscored by the tragic experience of Roald Dahl. His account highlights the devastating impact of the disease on individuals and families. By dedicating two of his books to Olivia, Roald Dahl emphasized the potential for vaccination to save lives and prevent similar tragedies.

Vaccination and Its Safety

Vaccination against measles is both safe and effective. The MMR vaccine has been developed and widely used for decades, with a strong track record of preventing the disease. The data confirming the effectiveness of the vaccine is conclusive, and the risk of serious side effects is extremely low.

The Significance of Roald Dahl's Call for Immunization

Roald Dahl's personal experience with measles and his dedication to preventing such tragedies through vaccination were significant. He emphasized the importance of insisting that children be immunized against measles to prevent the kind of tragedy that could have been avoided. His dedication to this cause is evident in his words, which continue to resonate with parents and health advocates today.

Conclusion

The chances of getting measles are extremely low, especially with the widespread use of the MMR vaccine. Personal experiences, historical anecdotes, and medical evidence all underscore the critical importance of vaccination. As Roald Dahl stated, the prevention of such tragedies through vaccination is a simple yet powerful way to protect individuals and communities from this highly contagious and potentially deadly disease.

References

1. CDC. (2023). Measles Cases and Outbreaks. 2. Roald Dahl. (1986). James and the Giant Peach. London: Doubleday Children's Group. 3. Roald Dahl. (1986). The BFG. London: Doubleday Children's Group.