Skeptical Kiwi

Measles outbreaks in New Zealand and What That Means For You Unless you've been living under a rock, you will be aware of measles cases across New Zealand, in Canterbury, Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Auckland. Cases have been detected in Wellington, and Lakes, Northland as well. The rates are alarming, with a large number of the infected being unvaccinated, 86%, including children under the age of 15 months (the age at which the first MMR shot is given).  ESR Report: Week 19 May 4 - May 19 Let's talk about what Measles is, what these numbers mean, try to dispel some myths, and why you should get vaccinated.  What is Measles? Measles is caused by the Measles virus. Symptoms, as described by the Ministry of Health , include a fever, cough, runny nose, sore/watery eyes and the characteristic red rash, with white (Koplik spots). Complications can be serious and 1 in 10 infected will need hospitalisation. The complications can include ear infections (which ca...

  Mandatory Vaccination Courtesy of Cartoons By Kristin Death threats, outbreaks, denial and pseudoscience Introduction High rates of vaccination are important for a safe, happy and healthy society. When these decisions are left up to personal choice, however, misinformation, emotions, and misled opinions abound. Providing facts and studies is not enough anymore. Too many people distrust science and don’t possess the ability to understand it, or simply don’t believe the experts. This has lead to a drop in vaccination rates and consequently, outbreaks. I recommend mandatory vaccination as the right course of action. Mandatory does not mean forced. There is still a choice. If the mandates suggested here are upsetting to you, the solution is easy; vaccinate your children . I’m proposing that vaccination becomes mandatory for those seeking to enrol their children into 1. Public School 2. Daycare/Kindergarten facilities 3. Doctor and hospital admission Full im...