Measles Outbreak Spreads to Polk County, Florida: Ninth Case Confirmed
The measles outbreak has reached Central Florida, with the Florida Department of Health confirming a ninth case in Polk County. This particular case is travel-related, and the patient is an adult between the ages of 20 and 24, marking the first instance of an infected adult in Florida this year. The news comes after eight children and teenagers were infected with measles in Broward County. Health officials are expressing concern as the number of cases reported in the first two months of 2024 already accounts for more than half of last year’s total.
The drop in childhood vaccinations following the pandemic has contributed to this worrisome situation. Jill Roberts, an associate professor at the University of South Florida College of Public Health, explains that the combination of increasing numbers of unvaccinated individuals worldwide and the highly contagious nature of measles creates a perfect storm. Unvaccinated individuals have a 90% chance of contracting the virus if exposed. During the last measles outbreak in the United States in 2019, 10% of cases resulted in hospitalizations.
Roberts emphasizes the seriousness of measles, stating that it can lead to severe complications such as deafness, disability, and even death. She urges individuals to consult trusted healthcare providers for accurate information and guidance. While health officials typically recommend a 21-day quarantine for unvaccinated schoolchildren during an outbreak, Florida Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo has deviated from this recommendation. Instead, he leaves the decision of whether to keep children home up to parents. This decision has faced criticism from some doctors in Florida.
In light of the outbreak, Roberts advises parents of unvaccinated children to remain vigilant and be aware of symptoms such as rash and fever. It is crucial to seek immediate evaluation if these symptoms arise. Currently, Florida falls below the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommended measles vaccination rate of 95%, with approximately 91% of Florida kindergartners vaccinated. Roberts encourages parents with vaccine-related questions to consult their doctors for guidance.
The recent measles outbreak serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccinations and the potential consequences of not vaccinating. It is crucial for individuals to stay informed, seek accurate information from trusted sources, and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities.
