In recent years, the decline in vaccination rates has led to a concerning resurgence of preventable diseases. While unvaccinated individuals are particularly at risk, even those who received vaccinations in the past may not be fully protected. The most alarming example is the significant increase in cases of whooping cough, with over 32,000 reported instances in 2024—the highest number in a decade. In California alone, nearly 2,000 people were affected by this disease between January and October last year. This trend highlights the broader issue of disrupted childhood immunizations due to the pandemic, leaving hundreds of thousands of children vulnerable to illnesses that were once considered historical.

Pertussis Outbreak in California: A Microcosm of Broader Public Health Challenges

In the midst of a golden autumn, California faced an unprecedented health crisis as whooping cough, or pertussis, re-emerged with alarming frequency. Over 2,000 cases were recorded within the first ten months of the previous year, with more than 60 infants under four months requiring hospitalization. Tragically, one young life was lost. This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the consequences when vaccination rates plummet. The disruption caused by the pandemic has significantly impacted routine childhood immunizations, leading to increased vulnerability among children to diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella. Experts warn that if this trend continues, infectious diseases could resurface across all age groups within a couple of years.

The situation extends beyond just the unvaccinated population. Adults who received vaccines decades ago may also find their immunity waning, making them susceptible to what were once considered childhood illnesses. Dr. Pejman Rohani, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the University of Georgia, emphasizes the urgency of addressing this issue, stating that outbreaks are inevitable unless vaccination rates improve.

From a journalist's perspective, this story underscores the critical importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to protect public health. It serves as a wake-up call for communities and policymakers to prioritize immunization programs and combat misinformation that contributes to declining trust in vaccines. Only through collective action can we prevent history from repeating itself and safeguard future generations from preventable diseases.

Winter's harsh conditions can be particularly unforgiving to our hands, stripping them of moisture and leaving the skin dry and cracked. To combat this issue, three professionals who rely heavily on their hands share their personal strategies for keeping their skin soft and healthy. Dermatologist Michelle Henry, ceramist and furniture designer Simone Bodmer-Turner, and hand model Avisha Tewani offer practical advice on maintaining well-hydrated hands despite the cold weather. Each expert provides unique insights into products and routines that have proven effective in protecting and nurturing the skin.

Moisturizing Routines from a Dermatology Perspective

Dermatologist Michelle Henry emphasizes the importance of frequent moisturization throughout the day. She highlights the lack of oil glands in our palms, which makes regular hydration crucial. Henry recommends using a hydrating hand wash followed by an intensive yet non-greasy cream. At night, she opts for hand masks and gel-lined gloves to lock in moisture while sleeping. For severely cracked skin, she suggests soaking in a colloidal oat bath before applying a mask or cream and wearing gloves. In extreme cases, consulting a dermatologist for prescription treatments may be necessary.

Henry's daily routine involves cleansing her hands with a Dove Advanced Care Deep Moisture Hand Wash. This product not only cleanses but also hydrates the skin. Post-wash, she applies Neutrogena’s Norwegian Formula Hand Cream, which contains petroleum to prevent water loss without causing greasiness. For nighttime care, she uses Aquaphor Repairing Hand Masks and ZenToes Moisturizing Gloves. These tools help maintain optimal hydration levels overnight. When dealing with more severe dryness, Henry recommends Aveeno’s colloidal oat bath treatment combined with a bedtime skincare routine involving creams and gloves.

Creative Solutions from a Ceramist and Furniture Designer

Simone Bodmer-Turner, a ceramist and furniture designer, faces unique challenges due to her work with clay, plaster, and wood. Her hands require special attention to counteract the drying effects of these materials. Bodmer-Turner starts her day with Saipua’s Cedarwood soap, which is both gentle and moisturizing. She appreciates its natural scents derived from herbs and flowers. Additionally, she has switched to dark-colored towels to better suit her rural lifestyle, favoring Mara Organic’s Waffle Towels in Midnight for their softness and absorbency.

Bodmer-Turner’s approach to hand care extends beyond basic hygiene. After working with various materials, she relies on Marie Veronique Body Barrier Emulsion to restore and protect her skin. This high-end emulsion forms a protective layer that shields against environmental stressors. For deeper conditioning, she uses Bag Balm the Original and Lauren’s All Purpose Salve. Both products are rich in nourishing ingredients that deeply penetrate the skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration. By integrating these specialized products into her routine, Bodmer-Turner maintains healthy and resilient hands despite the demanding nature of her craft.