108: "I Don't Like Needles"

Pertussis (whooping cough) is now an epidemic in this part of the world.  Too many parents have not vaccinated their children, allowing the virus to take hold.

Meanwhile my organization of several thousand employees has decided that employees who have direct contact with patients must either receive the flu vaccine or wear a face mask.  One of our receptionists has selected the latter.  After a few days of stuffy breathing and difficulty making herself understand, she has allowed the mask to slip; it now just covers her chin. Her rebellion stands unchallenged.

Sure, I understand true needle phobia, and initial parental concerns about the many vaccines kids are subjected to.  But shouldn't rational decision-making also play a role?