Article originally published in the Lykens Register on December 9, 1932. Full article text provided by Newspapers.com below.
“Despite its prevalence, measles is a dangerous disease. Some foolish parents, more or less accustomed to seeing the measles quarantine sign, conclude that it is ‘one of those childhood diseases,’ and consequently needs to concern them little. Despite this all too prevalent impression, measles is not only a highly contagious affliction but has a killing fondness for thousands of the younger children.
Moreover, its after-effects may, and frequently do, leave permanent weaknesses that seriously affect the future life of the victim,” states Doctor T. B. Appel, Secretary of Health.
“Sneezing, a slight cough and running of the nose are the usual signs that another measles victim has been made. The eyes are also very likely to become red and watery, and they will be sensitive to the light. Unfortunately, it is at this stage of the disease that other children are likely to contract it. Parents therefore cannot be too careful if their suspicions are thus reasonably aroused. The doctor should be called at once, and the child isolated. If the diagnosis is confirmed, then the physician’s orders should be strictly and literally followed.
“Especial care is required during the convalescent period. As already indicated, the consequences of this visitation often may be quite serious. Complications at this stage, with ends results of kidney trouble or impairment of sight or hearing, can easily take command. Obviously, everything should be done to avoid such a devastating possibility.
“Contrary to the foolish notion of many parents, it should be quite unnecessary for children to contract this plague. Youngsters, especially in tender years, can easily be kept from measles contacts, that is, if parents of measles victims fully realize their obligation not only to their own child, but to other children also. This however, is where the armor is weak.
“It is a regrettable fact that so many adults view the quarantine card for the so-called minor ailments with indifference. Frequently, they consider it a stigma and a representation of a type of official punishment. Nothing is further from the fact. The quarantine not only keeps people in, but keeps others out. Its sole purpose is to reduce the possibility of contagion to a minimum.
“More cooperation on the part of citizens in this connection undoubtedly would result in less measles with their accompanying devastating effects. The next time measles is prevalent in your locality, weigh well the attitude you assume both toward the disease and the quarantine against it. Conceivably, it may save your child’s life.”
“I’m going to give a series of lectures on Russia.”
“But you’ve never been there.”
“Well, neither have the people who will hear me lecture.”
