rate this rationale a b c
The purpose of this investigation is to gather secondary evidence regarding the effects of government disease management strategies, in accordance with a vaccination program, on the incidence of measles infection. The chosen claim to investigate is that “Government disease management strategies are critical for controlling the spread of disease.”
Measles is a contagious viral infection that mainly affects children. It is caused by a virus from the paramyxovirus family and spreads through airborne and direct contact. The symptoms appear 14 days after exposure and include a rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes (WHO, 2023). Vaccination involves introducing a vaccine into the body to provide protection against a specific disease. In this case, the vaccine against measles contains antigens, which are substances that produce an immune response from white blood cells, specifically B-cells (Greenwood, T., Pryor, K., Bainbridge- smith, L., 2018). This helps the body distinguish its own tissues from foreign materials such as bacteria, viruses, and toxins, and prevents them from attacking the body itself (Dutta, 2020). The type of vaccine used for measles is a formulation that elicits an immune response, consisting of two pragmatically scheduled vaccination: “measles-‐containing vaccine dose 1” and “measles-‐containing vaccine dose 2” (WHO, 2009).
Measles can be prevented with the MMR vaccine, which is a live, attenuated vaccine that provides protection from measles, mumps, and rubella. Two doses are 97% effective against measles, which are given at 12 months and 18 months after the baby is born (CDC, 2021). When injected into the body, it simulates the immune system's ability to recognise foreign antigens and produce antibodies. The live virus does not trigger a live infection as it contains a weakened variant of measles that is still recognised by the immune system (Government of Canada, 2019). To raise public awareness, the World government has implemented the vaccination programs as a crucial measure for limiting the spread of measles. The program prioritises detailed monitoring of measles cases, and educating communities about the significance of vaccination.
Worldwide, governments provide certain incentives for childhood measles vaccination. For example, the Australian government's current policy withholds financial benefits like childcare and school registration from children who don't receive the recommended vaccinations (Australian Government, 2023). The basis for government enforcement of vaccination to maintain herd immunity. Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of a community becomes immune to the disease, limiting transmission of the virus to vulnerable members of the population, such as immunocompromised people. This proportion varies from disease as infectious as measles, the herd immunity rate is 95% of the population (Pruthi.S, 2022). For instance, herd immunity against ongoing pandemic diseases (COVID-19) is projected to be between 55% and 82%, and the rate has been impacted by a record-high vaccination refusal rate of more than 10-15% in Australia (AJGP, 2023).
Despite the availability of vaccines and the potential to prevent it through vaccination, the measles resurgence has been linked to vaccine hesitancy (CDC, 2022). This is due to the globalisation of information, and consequent spread of false beliefs and misinformation from Dr. Andrew Wakefield, who falsely misconstrued a link with vaccine and the cause of autism (CHP, 2014). These beliefs lead to a refusal to vaccinate children, which ultimately decreases the vaccination rate, contributing to outbreaks and a reduction in herd immunity (Shen, S. and Dubey, V., 2019).
I would rate this rationale as a B.
The rationale provides a clear and specific objective for the investigation, which is to gather secondary evidence on the effects of government disease management strategies on the incidence of measles infection. The chosen claim is also clearly stated and focused.
The rationale provides relevant background information on measles, including its symptoms, transmission, and the role of vaccination in prevention. It also explains how the measles vaccine works and the importance of vaccination programs in controlling the spread of measles.
The rationale discusses the concept of herd immunity and its importance in protecting vulnerable populations. It also mentions the government's incentives for childhood measles vaccination, providing an example of the Australian government's policy.
The rationale acknowledges the issue of vaccine hesitancy and its impact on the resurgence of measles. It cites the false beliefs and misinformation spread by Dr. Andrew Wakefield as a significant factor contributing to vaccine refusal.
Overall, the rationale effectively sets up the investigation and provides relevant information to support the chosen claim. It could be improved by providing more specific information on the secondary evidence that will be gathered and how it will be analyzed.
Overall, I would rate this rationale a B. Here's a breakdown of the reasons behind this rating:
Strengths:
1. Clear objective: The rationale clearly states the purpose of the investigation, which is to gather secondary evidence on the effects of government disease management strategies on the incidence of measles infection.
2. Well-defined claim: The chosen claim to investigate is presented clearly and concisely, stating that government disease management strategies are critical for controlling the spread of disease.
3. Thorough background information: The rationale provides comprehensive information about measles, vaccination, and the importance of government vaccination programs.
4. Supportive evidence: The rationale includes references to credible sources, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), to support the information presented.
Weaknesses:
1. Limited discussion on research methodology: The rationale does not discuss the specific research methods that will be used to gather secondary evidence. It would be beneficial to include some information about the chosen research approach or sources that will be used.
2. Lack of statistical data: While the rationale mentions the effectiveness of the MMR vaccine and the vaccination refusal rate in Australia, it does not provide comprehensive statistical data on the incidence of measles infection or the impact of government disease management strategies on controlling the spread of the disease. Including more statistical data would strengthen the rationale further.
Overall, the rationale provides a solid foundation for investigating the chosen claim, but it could benefit from further discussion on the research methodology and inclusion of more statistical data.