The West Texas measles outbreak that claimed one life so far has grown to 146, while new cases have been reported in other states including New Mexico, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and California. Experts say the highly contagious virus is entirely preventable if enough people are immunized, but vaccination rates in the US are dropping. Dr. Ron Schneebaum, a retired pediatrician, says the problem with vaccines today is that they have been so effective. “People easily forget how devastating some childhood illnesses were. Before the measles vaccine was developed in the early 1960s, 2 1/2 million people died of measles every year in the world.” Schneebaum advises parents who are hesitant to vaccinate to talk to their pediatrician about their concerns and approach the subject with an open mind and an interest in learning. Ron Schneebaum spent 40 years as a primary care pediatrician. He also served on the clinical faculty at Dartmouth College’s Geisel School of Medicine. During his career he regularly noted the power and importance of love for the human psyche. It became the basis for his book, “Bigger Hearted: A Retired Pediatrician’s Prescriptions for Living a Happier Life.” Contact Dr. Schneebaum at (603) 314-3095; rschneebaum@rtirguests.com
