Immunisation has been so successful at decreasing the frequency of childhood infection. You know the ones; measles, mumps, diphtheria or Tetanus and there are others. Most doctors have never seen a case although working as I did, in Vietnam and later in Papua New Guinea, and almost most were un-vaccinated, I have seen them all.
Perhaps that’s why I get so concerned when I hear there’s been an outbreak of measles so close to us in Samoa. The children and babies who are suffering caught the virus because of people’s misplaced fears of the risks associated with immunization..
If they had the first injection for MMR, (mealses, mumps, rubella) at 12 months they would have received some protection but having the second injecton at 4 years puts the icing on the cake and builds up the immunity.
Take this opportunity to check your children’s immunisation schedule and make sure they are up to date. If you are unsure talk to your GP about a booster.
These are two good sites to visit for more information on the topic: https://www.nps.org.au/consumers/the-measles-vaccine-explained
https://www.myvaccination.com.au/