Unvaccinated Babies: A Tragic Loss Reminds Us of the Urgency of Vaccination

Over the past week, a five-week-old baby from the Jerusalem area has passed away due to whooping cough. This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination, especially for vulnerable populations. The baby’s mother was not vaccinated during pregnancy, and the baby himself was too young to receive the vaccine. Pertussis can be fatal for unvaccinated babies, claiming about one percent of their lives.

This recent case is the third reported death of a baby due to whooping cough since an outbreak earlier in 2023. Vaccination against diseases like tetanus is also crucial, as recently seen in the case of a seven-year-old girl from Netanya who contracted tetanus due to not being vaccinated. Tetanus is not contagious between individuals but is contracted through spores found in soil, making regular vaccination essential.

Routine vaccinations in Israel protect against diphtheria, polio, and HIB. These vaccinations are essential for preventing the spread of these deadly diseases. The Ministry of Health recently updated on an increase in West Nile fever cases with several fatalities already reported. Prevention methods for this disease include avoiding mosquito bites as they are the primary carrier. There is currently no vaccine or cure for West Nile fever, with treatment limited to supportive care.

As Israel battles against the spread of COVID-19, it is crucial for those in risk groups to take precautions such as using masks in enclosed spaces and avoiding crowded areas until the situation improves. Stay informed about vaccination schedules and updates from health authorities to protect yourself and your community from preventable diseases.

In summary, this recent tragedy highlights the importance of vaccination during pregnancy and routine vaccinations for children to protect them from deadly diseases like pertussis and tetanus. It also emphasizes the need for regular prevention measures against other diseases like West Nile fever while battling COVID-19’s spread in Israel.

The best way to protect younger babies is by vaccinating their mothers between weeks 27 and 36 of pregnancy. This vaccine increases their levels of antibodies against pertussis in their bloodstream, which passes through their placenta to protect their fetus until they can receive it themselves.

Overall, this incident underscores how critical it is to prioritize preventive measures such as immunization during pregnancy and routine childhood vaccinations to save lives and prevent unnecessary deaths among vulnerable populations.