Florida has confirmed its first measles case of the year, as outbreaks continue to spread across several U.S. states. The case involves a student at Miami Palmetto Senior High School in Pinecrest, according to an email obtained by CBS News Miami.
Measles, once declared eliminated in the U.S., has been making a troubling comeback. Health experts link the resurgence to declining vaccination rates, as anti-vaccine sentiment has grown in recent years. Outbreaks have been reported in states including California, Georgia, Kentucky, and New York, with the majority of cases affecting unvaccinated individuals.
Miami Palmetto Senior High officials are working closely with local health authorities to prevent further spread. Parents and guardians were notified that:
- Vaccinated students have a lower risk of infection
- The school will offer free MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccines to unvaccinated students (with parental consent)
- The local health department will contact families if their child was in close contact with the infected student
Measles is a highly contagious airborne disease that can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine, which is 97% effective in preventing measles.
With measles cases rising across the U.S., public health officials are urging parents to ensure their children are vaccinated to prevent more outbreaks. As Florida reports its first case of 2024, health experts are watching closely to see if additional infections emerge in the state.
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