Morgan Tymoch said she’s looking forward to getting her 6-month-old son, Noah, vaccinated.
She said, in her opinion, the benefits far outweigh the odds of possible side effects.
“Vaccines can protect my son in ways that I cannot, which gives me peace of mind,” Tymoch said.
But local doctors are still trying to reach those who feel otherwise. A few medical professionals stood with House Rep. Joe Morelle on Thursday to underscore the importance of pediatric immunizations — particularly against measles.
Experts believe the amount of disinformation around vaccination has resulted in fewer people getting their children vaccinated — resulting in increased measles cases.
“I don't think a week goes by in the office that I don't have this conversation with parents,” said Dr. Catherine Goodfellow, founder of Genesis Pediatrics in Gates. She said as of late her parents are becoming more hesitant to get their kids immunized.
And she is always honest and open with them.
“Parents of all generations have hopefully this common goal to protect their children and do the best for them that they know how,” Goodfellow said. “Vaccines in our era have become a large part of that.”
As of April 17, a total of 850 confirmed measles cases were reported across the U.S. including New York State, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Almost 70% of those cases were individuals age 19 and younger who were mostly unvaccinated.
Dr. Janine Fogarty, the president of Monroe County Medical Society, said vaccination remains one of the most effective tools for preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Like Goodfellow, Fogarty said establishing rapport with your physician is one of the best ways to fight against disinformation.
“Trust is the foundation of that connection,” she said. “We know parents want to make the best choices for their children, and that starts with open, respectful and informed dialog between families and their physicians.”
The CDC said the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine is 93% effective at preventing measles. Children are eligible for their first dose of the two-dose vaccine at twelve months.
Tymoch said she encourages all parents to confide in their physicians — like she did with baby Noah.
“Ask questions without the fear of how small, silly or complicated you may think the question may be,” Tymoch said. “Communicate, be honest and relay your fears.”
