‘These diseases are still out there:’ Doctors discuss the importance of vaccines before the school year

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) – We’re fast approaching back-to-school season which, for many, means back-to-school vaccines.

In New York State, it is mandatory for children to be vaccinated by the beginning of the school year. Few exceptions are made, like for those with medical needs that wouldn’t allow them to get vaccinated.

The local doctors News 8’s Oran Spitzer spoke with are concerned about the rising cases of measles. The Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine (MMR), has been associated socially with autism. However, Dr. Beth Orlowski with Rochester Regional Health says this is false information spread online.

“There’s good information but there’s so much false information out there that I can’t argue with parents about because it’s out there,” says Dr. Beth Orlowski, DO, with Rochester Regional Health, “A lot of people believe everything they see on the internet.”

Jennifer Nayak an Associate Professor in Pediatric Infectious Disease with URMC says already in August there have been over 200 reported cases of measles, including in New York. Nearly 70% of those cases are in children, and most of them weren’t vaccinated.

“These diseases are still out there, still can cause significant illness, and vaccines can prevent and protect your children when you’re going into a situation such as school,” said Nayak.

Ultimately, these doctors say you should consult your pediatrician to make the best decision for your child.

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