1. The issue is real.
2. I'm not ready to say "Steer clear of disc brakes yet."
3. If you have disc brakes, do everything right. Don't file the lawyer tabs off of your fork. If you have a quick release, be sure that you use it correctly. Avoid quick releases that have an external cam mechanism that you can see.
4. Thru axles on mountain bike forks. Why do you suppose they suddenly have become so popular?