This article was first published on 2/9/2015.
Thats right, measles.
At the time of this writing, an outbreak has hit at least14 states.
Here are the best ways to stay safe if the infamous virus moves in to your neighborhood.
Youre more at risk if you live in a pocket of low vaccine coverage.
Not all schools have or will share this data, though.
Unscientifically, you could consider yourself in a hotbed of anti-vaxxers if youlive near a Whole Foods.
Dont forget yourself, though!
(While youre at it, consider getting yourflu shotanddiphtheria/tetanus/pertussisbooster.)
Pregnant womencant get the measles vaccine, so if youre thinking of getting pregnant, get the shot now.
And yes, itis legalfor public health authorities to order you intoquarantine or isolation.
Dont go to the doctorif you think you might have measles.
Call instead, and ask what to do.
Those virus particles can hang in the air for hours.
Dont bother stocking up on Vitamin A, either.
One in a thousand dies.
Heres whats a lot safer and still gives excellent immunity: the actual vaccine.
The same advice applies tochicken pox parties, which are, sadly, also a thing.
The chicken pox vaccine is safer than getting actual chicken pox.
Its easier, too:cartoon, stab, hug, done.
Dont purposely infect your kid with diseases were trying to eradicate, okay?
Dont Chew Out Your Anti-Vaxxer Friends
Sure, theyre wrong.
Butinsults dont win arguments, and facts dont always change minds.
If they find the anti-vaxxers welcoming and the pro-vaccine crowd self-righteous and snarky, youre pushing away.
Instead, especially if you are a parent, empathize.
Talk to them abouthow you understand wanting to protect your children.
Title photo fromThe Practical Guide to Healthby Frederick Rossiter (illustrator not credited)via Sue Clark.
Other photos byMike Licht,christina rutz,NinaZed,musicalwds,Tambako the Jaguar.
