The Danger of Measles Parties: Why They're a Bad Idea

Health experts are raising alarms about a troubling trend: measles parties. These gatherings, where people intentionally expose themselves to the measles virus, are popping up due to misinformation and fear. The idea is to create immunity by getting sick on purpose. But this is a risky game. In Texas and New Mexico, this dangerous trend has led to tragic consequences. An unvaccinated child and an unvaccinated adult have died from measles. More than 20 people have been hospitalized, and over 140 cases have been reported in Texas alone. Most of these cases involve people who were not vaccinated or whose vaccination status was unknown. This is a stark reminder that measles is not a mild illness. The risks are high. Measles can cause severe complications, including brain swelling. This can lead to permanent disabilities, such as the inability to walk or talk independently. Unlike chickenpox, measles can have devastating consequences. The thought of deliberately exposing oneself to such a virus is terrifying. Officials in Texas and Oregon are strongly advising against these parties. They point out that low vaccination rates and measles parties can fuel outbreaks, as seen in New York City in 2019. The best way to protect against measles is through vaccination. The first dose, given between 12 and 15 months of age, is 93% effective. A second dose, given between 4 and 6 years of age, boosts this to 97%. Even if vaccinated children do get measles, their symptoms are usually very mild. They almost never need hospitalization. This shows just how effective the vaccine is. So, why take the risk? It's crucial to understand that measles is a serious disease. It's not something to be taken lightly or exposed to on purpose.