Protection far outweighs risks
A surge in the number of cases of measles this year in the United States demonstrates how quickly disease can spread to non-immunized children. Vaccinating children against disease remains a safe and important part of protection against the sometimes serious effects of measles and other diseases.
“Vaccines are important because they prevent many potentially life-threatening illnesses and have greatly reduced disease rates in the United States. If you decrease the immunization rate, bacteria and viruses could come back into the environment. In our global world, it’s very easy for diseases to be transmitted back to our part of the world,” says Michael Macknin, MD, a Cleveland Clinic pediatrician.
Protect yourself when traveling
Diseases like measles remain common in some countries of the world, even in Europe. In severe instances, measles can cause pneumonia, swelling of the brain (meningitis) or death. Without the protection of vaccines, highly contagious diseases like measles can spread quickly.
In Arizona last March, 11 cases of measles were linked to one man who had traveled to Switzerland, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So it’s wise to consult a physician skilled in travel medicine before traveling.
Vaccines not linked to autism
A combination vaccine, the MMR, protects against measles, mumps and rubella (German measles). Even though claims have been made linking the vaccine to the development of autism, large studies have found that there is no scientific proof to support this theory. Doctors still view the vaccine as safe and effective.
Oftentimes, the signs of autism appear around the same ages that children are when they receive vaccinations. The first MMR shot is given at about 1 year, for example, close to the age when signs of autism first become obvious.
“Just because something happens right after something else doesn’t mean that the first thing caused the second thing,” Dr. Macknin says. “Vaccines are made really safely and precisely with technology today.”
Related content:
Will you or a loved one be traveling internationally? Read our guide:
Immunizations: What You Need to Know Before Traveling Abroad
Access vaccination information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Learn more about measles.
Find out what you need to know about childhood immunization.
Access a childhood immunization schedule.
