Today marks the first day of World Immunization Week (April 24–30), supported by the World Health Organization (WHO). This year’s theme focuses on the potential to deliver immunizations for all—a goal that should not be far from reality. Moreover, raising awareness about the importance of immunizations is more critical now than ever, as we face an increase in communicable diseases, such as measles, globally. In fact, in 2024, Europe reported 27,350 measles cases—double the number reported in 2023 and the highest number since 1997. In the USA, 800 measles cases were reported between January and April 2025, marking a significant increase over 2024.
As a patient myself, I have always been vigilant about keeping up with my health and vaccinations—well, at least I thought so! From early childhood, I needed to maintain my vaccination against pneumonia due to a comorbidity. I also assumed I was well-protected against diseases such as measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) after receiving my vaccinations. Fast forward 40+ years, and much to my surprise, I contracted measles during a trip to South Africa. Given that the timing of my trip coincided with the incubation period of the disease, I likely caught it on the airplane. I must say, I was shocked—how could I catch measles after being vaccinated?
I have since learned that children born in the late 1960s and early 1970s generally did not receive a booster, increasing my risk of contracting the disease. After delaying my trip home, isolating (my pre-COVID practice), and feeling unwell for a few days, I was happy to have recovered with no medical consequences, despite my comorbidities. During this illness, I learned that measles in adults can result in serious complications requiring hospitalization, such as pneumonia, encephalitis, weakening of the immune system, and even death. For sure, the possibility of any of these complications was frightening!
After my recovery, I promptly updated my boosters and informed my healthcare provider, who reported the case to the health authorities.
This personal experience opened my eyes to the potential health risks to others when deciding not to vaccinate. I recognize that while many who contract measles and other communicable diseases will recover as I did, some may not have the same luck.
Remember that while vaccinating protects yourself, it also protects others—and it may even save someone’s life.
#WorldImmunizationWeek #VaccinesWork #PreventativeHealth #TGCHealth #HealthForAll #PublicHealth #CommunityCare #DiseasePrevention #StayHealthy #HealthAwareness
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