More cases of measles in IL. Trying not to panic

I don't think it is working very well. But, I am trying not to panic. 14 children in Il have now been diagnosed with measles. And I don't think it is going to stop there. http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2015/02/17/illinois-measles-cases-climb-to-14-with-another-infant-sick/ The first case started at Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights. This is where Ben goes to get Pulmonology care. He is scheduled to go there in about 9 days for a follow up and I have to say, I am panicking a bit about the thought of going there. It is only about 10 minutes from the Palatine daycare where there are many of the cases.

I have informed all of Ben's nurses and doctors that I am very worried about him being in the waiting room at all, for any period of time. They have all been very accommodating so far and rushed us back to a room as soon as we arrive. I need to call his pulmonology team as well and make them aware that I do not want to wait for any time at all in the waiting room. But, even the thought of walking through the hospital (it is a rather large hospital that you have to go through to get to pulmonology) is giving me the heeby-jeebies.

Measles is a highly contagious disease. It can stay in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has coughed or sneezed. Also, it starts out looking like a cold. And you are contagious even before you have a fever or rash. http://healthvermont.gov/prevent/measles/Measles.aspx So, while most people would stay home if they had the measles, not many people stay home for what they think is a cold. And often, people will go to the dr if they think they have a bad cold with a fever. And thereby, spread it to others without knowing it. Those that can not be vaccinated for measles are most at risk for catching it. 90% of patients that are not vaccinated for measles will catch it. This is why I am such a proponent of vaccinations and am on the parent advisory board of voices for vaccines.  Kids like Ben, and those too young or cancer patients or the elderly, they are all protected by herd immunity. And with this herd immunity breaking down, I am often fearful to take Ben anywhere. But, I am especially fearful of taking him anywhere that is close to measles outbreaks. So, I am sure you can understand my concern about taking him to Northwest Community for Pulmonology. Obviously I still have to take him. But my anxiety is high for that one. I am going to keep speaking out about vaccinations and hope that people start listening about the importance of on time vaccinations.

Help keep him safe!