Hi Falcons! Since it is still flu and virus season, there have been multiple outbreaks in urban areas. Because of this, a debate has sparked over the strictness of vaccination requirements. Though most evidence supports the use of vaccines, the outbreak has been severe enough to possibly harm those who have been vaccinated as well.

In Los Angeles, a Typhus epidemic has spread. According to CNN, Typhus is a disease of the past; it’s not very common and it hasn’t been since the invention of vaccines. If you don’t know already, Typhus is an infectious disease that is flea-borne and has symptoms that include fever, headache, and a rash. If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor for some more information.

Another outbreak is happening in Seattle, Washington. The disease called measles has rapidly spread throughout the metropolitan area. In Seattle, there is a higher population that is anti-vaccination (according to the Washington Department of Health), which means that the disease is reaching more than just the lower class citizens. If you don’t know what measles is, it is a highly contagious infectious disease (also known as rubeola) that causes high fever, cough, runny nose, and inflamed eyes. Symptoms can be difficult to spot, especially since they develop 10-12 days after initial infection. Because of this, health care officials urge immunization.

Though these outbreaks are tragic and scary, there are things you can do. You can stay sanitized (washing hands, clothes, and hair regularly) and can cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze to prevent spreading of viruses.

If you want to donate to help stop the spread of these diseases, click the links below:

Measles UNICEF

Typhus UNICEF