Health officials investigating measles outbreak at Broward school
The Florida Department of Health confirmed a fifth case of measles reported at a Broward public school, according to a statement released by school-district officials Monday afternoon. “The District is maintaining close coordination with the Health Department to address this ongoing situation,” said John Sullivan, a Broward district spokesman.
“Over the weekend, the District took further preventive measures by conducting a deep cleaning of the school premises and replacing its air filters. The school’s principal is actively communicating with families, ensuring they are kept up to date with the latest information,” he added.
The health department first gave an alert about the measles outbreak in a release during the weekend. On Saturday, Broward County Public Schools verified that there were at least four cases of measles at Manatee Bay Elementary School, a K-5 school at 19200 Manatee Isles Drive in Weston.
The district didn’t say whether those infected were students, teachers or other staff. The Sun Sentinel reported the school’s first case was a third-grader with no history of travel. Parents and teachers were told Friday.
SYMPTOMS
Measles is highly contagious and can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, according to the health department. It can have a more than 90% contraction rate among susceptible contacts. Those immunocompromised and unvaccinated are most at risk.
Measles, which appears as a rash and with a fever, can cause serious complications, especially in children younger than 5, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms begin about 8-14 days after exposure, the health department said. Transmission is possible four days before a rash is visible. Symptoms that might appear before the rash include: high fever cough runny nose red, watery eyes
WHAT ABOUT THE VACCINE?
According to the Department of Health, anyone who received the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is “highly unlikely” to contract the sickness. The vaccine is the best protection against the sickness. The health department says it’s more than 98% effective in preventing infection.
Vaccination rates for measles nationwide are declining, according to a CBS News report. Florida reports a 91.7% rate of vaccinations against measles.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE SICK
If you suspect you or your children might be infected, you should immediately contact your healthcare provider, who will prepare you to seek medical attention safely without exposing anyone else to the sickness. The health department also warned residents against visiting healthcare providers without contacting them ahead of time.