Measles is not just a rash, and fever, it can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), blindness, and even death. Children under five and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. It spreads through respiratory droplets, making it one of the most contagious viruses known to humanity.

The measles vaccine, usually given in two doses, is safe and over 95% effective. Yet, millions of children globally remain unvaccinated. In conflict zones, displaced communities, and underserved rural areas, access to routine immunization is limited. Meanwhile, misinformation and vaccine skepticism in wealthier countries have led to dangerous drops in vaccination coverage.

Reversing this trend requires urgent, coordinated efforts. Governments must prioritize routine immunization, healthcare systems must be strengthened, and public health messaging needs to combat misinformation with facts and empathy. Measles is a preventable disease-no child should suffer or die from it in 2025.

Let this outbreak be a wake-up call. The return of measles is not just a medical issue-it’s a measure of our global commitment to protecting the most vulnerable. With proven tools in hand, we can stop the spread. Vaccines Work!

Image Credit: FreePik-Measles Concept Illustration

Fall is here! and there seem to be an increase in activities at health care facilities regarding the common cold, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)-{a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms} and Influenza (Flu) especially among children. Are you and your children/loved ones vaccinations up to date? Please protect yourself and loved ones by getting vaccinated. #vaccineswork.

Image credit(s): Arkansas Children’s Hospital; prevention.com Kateryna Kon/Science Photo Library//Getty Images

• Congestion or runny nose
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Muscle or body aches
• Nausea or vomiting
• New loss of taste or smell
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Sore throat

Fast forward…Long covid also known as long haul or simply post covid is defined according to the WHO as a condition in which individuals continue to experience covid 19 related symptoms for longer than usual. These long-term effects may include fatigue, respiratory symptoms, and neurological symptoms. Nonetheless, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), here are some of the commonly reported symptoms of long covid:

• Anxiety
• cough
• depression
• fatigue
• Headache
• joint and chest pain
• Loss of smell and taste
• Mood Changes
• muscle pain
• shortness of breath

If you or loved ones experience any of these symptoms, please consult a physician for covid test or further evaluations.

Vaccines are readily and widely available! Please get vaccinated! #vaccineswork

Featured image credit: Geralt/22968 images from Pixabay

Now that you’ve been fully vaccinated (i.e. 2 weeks after the second dose), please do not let your guard down. Continue to practice the preventive measures in place such as social distancing, washing hands, and wearing mask in public. Vaccination plus these preventive measures have been proven to protect us all from this global pandemic (Covid-19) #vaccineswork

Image Credit: MIT Medical

There has been some misinformation about the COVID-19 vaccines. Here are some FACTS about the mRNA Covid-19 vaccines. Do your research before making an important decision of getting the COVID-19 vaccines. Remember, it is essential to stay informed! Vaccines have been proven to be an important tool in stopping pandemic. #vaccineswork

Credit Image 1: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); Credit Image 2: Fairfaxcounty.gov

Public health is a broad field that can be thrilling and captivating! Whether in developing or developed countries, public health services such as vaccines should always be made available and accessible to the citizens. Vaccinations have generated both positive and negative buzz lately depending on which side of the debate you find yourself. A case in point:  

An anti-vaxx community (anti-vaccination community) has been accused of allegedly keeping their children from being vaccinated and spreading misinformation about vaccinations. For instance, a young man from Ohio (Ethan Lindenberger) recently made headlines for going against the wishes of his anti-vaccine mother by getting vaccinated at 18. He testified in front of the U.S. Congress to warn against the dangers posed by opponents of vaccinations such as his mother. Many might have a problem with Ethan’s approach while others might see him as taking a stance on what he believes in.  It is worth noting that some children from within the anti-vaxx community seem to be breaking from their parents’ ideology, educating themselves and finding their own separate voices regarding the issue.

Vaccines are supposed to improve immunity to certain diseases and are recommended for children and adults.  I cannot deny the fact that ever since vaccinations became a controversial issue, I have been reading about anything that I can get my hands on regarding this issue. Some people might call it an obsession, but the fact remains that I hear and understand both sides of the arguments. Some parents argue against vaccinations for religious reasons, an alleged linkage to autism-which has been scientifically debunked, and distrust in the government. Others believe vaccinations are important to prevent the spread of diseases and avoid the situations like the current measles outbreaks in cities across the U.S. and Canada.

As a mother, I do strongly believe in vaccination, so I make sure my family is up to date on seasonal and scheduled vaccines. Does that mean that mothers that do not vaccinate their kids are not good parents? NO! I guess the point is that, I am just curious to learn why the number of unvaccinated children in the U.S. has increased in the last few years (Centers for Disease Control).  For those who are proponents of vaccines, note that, it is highly important to respect people’s opinions and choices while politely making them see the long term benefits of vaccines.

Importantly, whichever side of the argument you find yourself, it is important and recommended to weigh the pros and cons of vaccinations carefully i.e. do your own research, do not rely on the media and third party (misinformation most times), and ask questions before making this important decision. Remember, when it comes to parenting, one size does not always fit all!

Top 5 Reasons to vaccinate

• Immunizations can save your child’s life
• Vaccination is very safe and effective
• Immunization protects others you care about
• Immunizations can save your family time and money
• Immunization protects future generations

          (Source: US. Department of Health and Human Services)

Some reasons against vaccinations

• Religious reasons
• Vaccines allegedly cause autism –has been scientifically debunked
• Infant immune systems can’t handle so many vaccines
• Vaccines contain unsafe toxins

     (Source: publichealth.org)

Some facts on vaccinations

• Immunization through vaccination is the safest way to protect against disease.
• It is always best to get vaccinated, even when you think the risk of infection is low.
• Combined vaccines are safe and beneficial.
• There is no link between vaccines and autism.
• If we stop vaccination, deadly diseases will return. (Source: World Health Organization)