A flu outbreak is gripping Oklahoma, with doctors attributing the rapid spread to low vaccination rates. According to Dr. Dale Bratzler, Dean of Hudson College of Public Health, measles cases are increasing due to a decrease in vaccinations.
The latest measles outbreak in Central Texas highlights the issue. Dr. Bratzler notes that misinformation on social media and misconceptions about vaccine safety have contributed to low vaccination rates. He emphasizes that vaccines are effective in preventing diseases like autism, stating it “has been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt.”
Oklahoma’s public school kindergarteners had an 87% vaccination rate last year, while private school kindergarteners fared worse at 81%. The report also shows vaccine coverage for the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is among the lowest.
Dr. Bratzler warns that when population rates drop below 95%, outbreaks become inevitable. He encourages critical thinking before getting vaccinated, but reiterates vaccines’ purpose: reducing disease burden in children and adults alike. Currently, Texas reports 24 measles cases, mostly affecting young children.
Source: https://kfor.com/news/local/measles-outbreak-imminent-says-one-doctor-as-vaccination-rates-drop