Measles a Growing Concern in Florida, Health Officials Say

While there are no confirmed cases of measles among Florida residents, the state’s Department of Health wants to keep it that way.

That’s why the agency has issued a plea asking residents who are not vaccinated to remedy that situation. Over the past two weeks, four measles cases have been identified in travelers who visited the state. Two of those cases involved international travelers, the department stated in a media release.

“It’s important all Floridians make sure they have received the measles vaccination because those who are fully immunized have very little risk of developing the disease,” Dr. John Armstrong, the state’s surgeon general and secretary of health, was quoted in the release as saying. “The department is prepared to deal with any potential emerging infectious disease threat and is committed to ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors in Florida. Out of an abundance of caution, it is important for those who think they may have been exposed to measles to contact their health care provider for guidance right away.”

The state is notifying those who may have been exposed to measles as a result of the four cases found in visitors.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that is transmittable through the air. Symptoms typically begin within seven to 14 days of exposure and may include:

• A blotchy rash
• Fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Fatigue

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that three out of 10 people who get the measles develop complications that may include pneumonia, ear infections and diarrhea.

During the month of January, there were 102 reported cases in 14 states, according to the CDC. Many of those cases have been linked to a multi-state outbreak that originated in California.

Once declared eradicated, measles has been on the rebound in recent years, the CDC states.

“The United States experienced a record number of measles cases during 2014, with 644 cases from 27 states reported to CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD),” the agency’s website states. “This is the greatest number of cases since measles elimination was documented in the U.S. in 2000.”

The majority of people who contract measles are unvaccinated, according to the CDC.

In Florida, the state estimates 93 percent of kindergartners have been vaccinated.

“The smartest step any resident can take to protect themselves against this growing health threat is to get vaccinated,” Dr. Alan Pillersdorf, president of the Florida Medical Association, was quoted in the state’s release as saying. “Vaccines are available at your local doctor’s office and at all Local County Health Departments at a minimal cost or free. These vaccines are safe and play a vital role in creating a barrier between the human population and this virus.”

For more information about measles, visit the CDC online.

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