Measles and Vaccination: A Resurrected Disease, A Conflicted Response

As the increasingly fierce debate about vaccines grows, so do the number of measles cases. Personal choice, inaccurate understanding, and legislative action are fueling vaccine refusal for this previously eradicated, highly contagious viral infection. In August 2019, measles cases had spread to 30 U.S. states and were spreading globally, endangering mainly young children and those unable to be vaccinated. Herd immunity is being eroded as parents refuse vaccinations or choose alternate vaccine schedules. Nurses are in a prime position to educate and advocate for vaccinations that safeguard public health.