National

GB Doctor On Measles

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Measles was declared eliminated in the U.S. more than twenty years ago, but it appears as if cases are reappearing.

Published

2 years ago

October 22, 2022

Italia Hall

NASSAU, BAHAMAS – Measles was declared eliminated in the United States more than twenty years ago, but it appears as if cases are reappearing. Studies say the reemergence may be caused by international travelers and in some cases people who are now against the measles vaccine. One Grand Bahamian doctor encourages Bahamians to get vaccinated against this disease as studies have shown that it can save lives.

Measles is caused by a virus found in the nose and throat of an infected child or adult. When someone with measles coughs, sneezes or talks, infectious droplets spray into the air and that is how the virus is sometimes spread.

Clinical Director for Community Health Services in Grand Bahama Dr. Stacie Beveans says the virus is commonly found in children and the symptoms can appear ten to 15 days after being exposed. Those symptoms include coughing, body aches and a fever. And, she believes the reason why some are not getting vaccinated is due to misinformation.

The doctor is asking parents to vaccinate their kids as research has proven that the vaccine works.