Vaccine skepticism and measles outbreaks alarm Oklahoma physicians

In this edition of Hot Seat, political analyst Scott Mitchell and guests discuss the resurgence of measles, declining vaccination rates, and the challenges physicians face navigating health insurance hurdles in Oklahoma.

Physicians Warn of Consequences as Vaccination Rates Drop

Dr. Sumit Nanda, president of the Oklahoma State Medical Association, says Oklahoma is not doing enough to prevent infectious diseases like measles. Vaccination rates among children are at 85%, well below the 95% required for herd immunity.

"We as physicians are advocates of patients," Nanda said. "Vaccines are the safest, most effective way to prevent measles outbreaks."

Nanda likened prevention to firefighting. "It’s much like trying to put out a fire when it’s already blazing, as opposed to preventing fires," he said.

Trust in Doctors Still Strong, but Public Skepticism Grows

Despite falling trust in institutions, Nanda emphasized that most patients still trust their physicians. "If a doctor recommends a vaccine, please allow your children to get vaccinated," he urged. "We care deeply about our patients."

Frustrations with Insurance and Delayed Care

Nanda also criticized health insurance companies for obstructing timely care.

"It's frustrating for most physicians to have to wait to get approval for necessary surgeries or tests," he said. "Patients drive hours to see me and can’t get treatment because they lack prior authorization."

He praised recent legislation aimed at streamlining the process. "I’m very grateful that legislators passed the bill in both the House and hopefully soon in the Senate."

Measles Cases Surge After Eradication Milestone

Dr. Jason Onarecker, a pediatrician in private practice, noted that measles was once declared eradicated in the United States in 2000. But now, cases are rising.

"We've seen cases increasing of measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases like pertussis have been increasing year after year," he said.

Texas has over 600, and cases are spreading nationwide.

Infectious Disease Experts Sound Alarm on Broader Risks

Dr. Jim Kirk, an infectious disease specialist at SSM Health St. Anthony, said the rise in measles is a warning sign.

"It’s critical," Kirk said. "We don't see an end in sight."

He cited a Journal of the American Medical Association projection: millions of measles cases could occur over the next 25 years if vaccination rates drop further.

"Measles is really the canary in the coal mine," Kirk said. "If rates continue to fall, we’ll see the return of polio, whooping cough, diphtheria, and more."

Addressing Fears Rooted in Misinformation

Kirk and Onarecker addressed concerns that vaccines are linked to autism.

"There have been over 17 studies across seven countries, three continents, involving hundreds of thousands of children," said Kirk. "Each of these studies has come to the conclusion that there's no relationship between vaccination and autism."

Do Adults Need a Measles Booster?

Kirk said those vaccinated between 1963 and 1967 with the killed measles vaccine might not be fully protected.

Health care workers, he noted, are typically required to have two doses for full protection.