Did you witness measles outbreaks decades ago? Share your experienceΒ

As we continue to report on Wisconsinβs readiness for potential measles outbreaks, we have spoken to several people who have shared their memories of having measles before a vaccines were widely available. Weβd love to hear from more of you.Β
Before the 1960s, hundreds of thousands of Americans faced measles infections each year. The advent of vaccination eliminated the disease in the United States by 2000. But outbreaks have returned to some U.S. communities as trust in vaccines wanes in many communities.
Weβre following whether measles will return to Wisconsin, which has some of the nationβs lowest vaccination rates for children.
If you have a story to share, whether itβs your own experience with measles or your observations of what it was like at the time, please take a moment to fill out this short form. Your submissions will shape the direction of our reporting and will not be shared publicly. But we may follow up with those who indicate they are comfortable with us doing so.Β
Thanks to those who have already shared their perspectives and questions.Β
Here are the stories your feedback has inspired so far:Β
- Wisconsin, once a leader in childhood vaccinations, now a leader in vaccine skepticism
- DataWatch: Measles will likely arrive in Wisconsin. Hereβs where vaccination rates are trending
Did you witness measles outbreaks decades ago? Share your experienceΒ is a post from Wisconsin Watch, a non-profit investigative news site covering Wisconsin since 2009. Please consider making a contribution to support our journalism.