Image Source: http://www.starlinetours.com/images/slt8/Disneyland1.jpg
Back in December, a number of measles cases were traced to Disneyland, located in Anaheim, California. To date, most of the cases confirmed in this outbreak have been linked to Disneyland, and more cases could be on the way if people do not heed the warnings of healthcare professionals. Infants under the age of 12 months (the age when children are allowed to receive the measles vaccination), parents of these infants, and people who have not been immunized against this disease should not visit Disneyland until the outbreak is over, health officials advise. People are becoming even more concerned because of those infected, 5 are Disneyland employees, and many more are now under surveillance.
Doctors did note that if you were immunized, it is safe for you to attend Disneyland, seeing as the vaccination is generally effective at preventing the disease. People all over California are being urged to get the measles vaccine due to the highly infectious nature of the illness. If an unvaccinated person comes into contact with the virus (which can be spread through the air and can linger in a room even after an infected person has left), there is a 90% chance that said person will contract this disease.
Because Disneyland is a tourist destination attracting many people from out of state and from out of the country, it is not surprising that the outbreak has spread to 5 other states along with Mexico. The mobility of those visiting the park has certainly added to the spread of the outbreak, along with the rise of people choosing not to vaccinate their children. This is in large part due to the lingering rumor that the MMR vaccine (which protects against Measles among other sicknesses) could cause autism. Despite the fact that many studies have come out against this claim, some still opt out of vaccinating their children.
Well, it looks like for right now Disneyland may NOT be the happiest place on Earth for those who haven’t had their shots. If you aren’t immunized, stay away from Disneyland for the time being, because from what I hear, contracting measles is not a fun way to welcome Winter Quarter. Stay healthy, everyone!