Return of the Measles - A public service announcement

 "All external events are determined by fate, and are thus beyond our control, but we can accept whatever happens calmly and dispassionately.

Individuals, however, are responsible for their own actions which they can examine and control through rigorous self-discipline.

Suffering arises from trying to control what is uncontrollable, or neglecting what is within our power." - Epictetus

Today is a brief PSA about Measles, which is experiencing a comeback.

There will be efforts on the part of governments and media to politicize this, but once again we are facing a health crisis where the people in charge see everything as a problem that better PR will fix.

First off, the measles vaccination you had as a child has probably worn off.  They last a long time, but they don't last forever.  As someone who recently had "Whooping Cough" (Pertussis), I can assure you that your immune system forgets things over time.

 So if you are over 30, you might consider revisiting your childhood vaccinations.  Just make sure you read the label of the vial they draw the vaccine out of.

Since none of us have ever seen a case of Measles in person, and the news media is silent on this, here are the symptoms: 

It starts off with the same symptoms as a common cold.  Runny nose, sore throat, cough and tiredness.  However, with measles are two unusual symptoms: Conjunctivitis - bloodshot eyes, and a very high fever.

2-3 days after these symptoms, a red blotchy rash will appear usually at first on the neck and face, and spreading eventually to the rest of the body.  Atop the rash will be blisters or pustules.  This phase lasts 7-10 days.

The contagious phase is 4 days before developing symptoms to about 4 days after the rash appears.

Consider re-vaccinating for your childhood diseases.  Tetanus is still a thing too.  Just make sure they don't inject you with something that hasn't completed Phase III safety trials.