Measles Outbreak in Broward County: Cases Continue to Rise
The number of measles cases in Broward County, Florida, is on the rise, with seven confirmed cases as of Thursday, according to the Florida Department of Health. The first case was reported on February 16 at Manatee Bay Elementary School in Weston, and five more cases were confirmed this week. A seventh case was shown on the Department of Health’s website Friday morning.
Measles in Broward County
The Florida Department of Health has confirmed seven cases of measles in Broward County. The first case was reported on February 16 in a third-grader at Manatee Bay Elementary School. Five more cases were reported at the school this week, but it’s unknown if the seventh case was also at the school. The ages of those with measles in Broward County range from 1 to 14 years old.
Measles Cases in Florida
As of February 22, all seven cases reported since February 1 have been in Broward County. There have been no reports of measles in any other Florida county.
Florida Surgeon General’s Recommendations
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo wrote a letter to parents of Manatee Bay Elementary School on February 20, stating that individuals without a history of prior infection or vaccination should stay home for up to 21 days when measles is detected in a school. He emphasized that up to 90% of individuals without immunity will contract measles if exposed. However, Ladapo also mentioned that the Department of Health is deferring to parents or guardians to make decisions about school attendance due to the high immunity rate in the community and the burden on families and educational cost of healthy children missing school.
School District’s Response
Broward Superintendent Peter Licata visited Manatee Bay Elementary School on February 20 and assured parents that it is safe for vaccinated children to attend school. Licata stated that the district is taking necessary precautions by cleaning the school and changing air filters. The vaccination rate at the school is around 92%, and the school has partnered with local health providers to hold vaccination events.
Measles Symptoms and Precautions
Parents of children at Manatee Bay Elementary School should watch for symptoms such as a rash, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red, watery eyes. If any symptoms are suspected, it is important to contact a health provider for instructions on how to safely seek medical attention before visiting a clinic or hospital to prevent further exposure.
Florida’s Vaccination Requirements
Florida requires students from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade to present an immunization record and a current Florida School Entry Physical Examination. The immunization record must show that the student has received the MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella. However, medical and religious exemptions from required vaccinations exist in Florida.
Contagiousness of Measles
Measles is highly contagious, with up to 90% of people close to an infected person who are not immune becoming infected as well. It spreads through coughing and sneezing, as well as touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. The virus can live in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. Infected individuals can spread measles from four days before through four days after the rash appears.
The recent measles outbreak in Broward County serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination and staying vigilant against preventable diseases. Parents should ensure their children are up to date on their immunizations and follow the recommendations of health officials to prevent further spread of measles in the community.
