This is what the measles virus actually does to the body

Over 150 cases have been reported in 17 states

Published February 24, 2015 4:50PM (EST)

     (Kurzgesagt/YouTube)
(Kurzgesagt/YouTube)

In December, a small measles outbreak began in Anaheim, Calif.'s Disneyland, largely due to the vaccine truther movement in which people opt out of recommended inoculations. Now, over 150 cases have been reported in 17 different states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We know that measles is a horrible, sometimes fatal disease. We know that it is preventable. But what does it actually do to the body?

Video collective Kurzgesagt's newest video explains how the disease aggressively infiltrates one's immune system, potentially leading to pneumonia or brain infection.

"Measles is no joke," says the video's narrator. "There are no benefits to having measles at all. You don't strengthen your immune system and it's not more natural. Most people who don't vaccinate only want the best for their children, which is honorable. But if you ask yourself, 'Am I putting the life of my child and other children at risk by not vaccinating against measles?' The sad answer is yes, yes you are."

Watch the video below.


By Joanna Rothkopf

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Biology Disease Kurzgesagt Measles Vaccinations Video