NY Allowing Early Vaccination For Infants To Combat Measles

New York State is currently going through the worst measles outbreak in 25 years.

As of April 26, 2019, there have been 7-4 confirmed cases of measles in the U.S., according to The Verge. In an effort to combat one of the worst measles outbreaks in decades, New York State is now allowing early vaccination for infants. Infants would typically get their measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines when they are about one year old.

The Verge reports that the New York State Department of Health has given doctors the go-ahead to lower the recommended vaccination age from one year to six months old. Typically, young children. babies, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems are most susceptible to contracting contagious viruses.

Stories about measles outbreaks and issues have been incredibly common in the Hudson Valley. From people supporting the anti-vaccination movement to judges ordering people to get vaccinated, to various outbreaks in different parts of the region: measles is a prominent issue in our community.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus that is spread by direct contact with nasal or throat secretions of infected people. Symptoms include cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, as well as the appearance of a rash.

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