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Overseas Measles Outbreaks Prompt Warning
By
Jen Chung
Published Apr 9, 2008
Modified Apr 9, 2008
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By
Jen Chung
Published Apr 9, 2008
Modified Apr 9, 2008
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The NYC Health Department issued a warning recommending residents get measles vaccines before traveling overseas. There are currently measles outbreaks in Israel and Switzerland, and others have occurred in other parts of Europe.
Assistant Commissioner for Immunization Dr. Jane Zucker said, “Vaccinations are the safest and most effective way to protect yourself and others, whether you are traveling to Europe or to a developing country. If you’re traveling to or returning from Israel for the approaching Passover holiday, be sure you’ve had your shots.”
According to the NY Sun, there have been 10 measles cases in the city so far this year. Though the number is double that of 2007, the city doesn't consider it an outbreak. But all the cases have been in Brooklyn and "were linked to overseas travel," mostly people bringing measles in. In one case, the Sun reports, "an Israeli baby with measles traveled to New York for a relative's wedding in Brooklyn."
While 94% of NYC children are vaccinated, there have been concerns about a possible link between childhood vaccines and autism. The Center for Disease Control does not believe there is a link and offers this fact sheet.
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measles
Jen Chung
Jen Chung is a former WNYC and Gothamist editor.
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Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations
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