Florida has confirmed its 6th measles infection, as the outbreak has spread to a Broward County elementary school. Florida is one of 11 states reporting cases of the dangerous illness this year. In January a Philadelphia daycare center was at the center of an outbreak that sickened 9 children. A child in Camden County was infected around the same time. Almost all cases have been people who have not been vaccinated. Measles one of the most contagious diseases: much more than COVID-19 and flu. Fortunately, the measles vaccine is one of the most effective vaccines we have for any virus. So, if you received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) shots, you’re 98% protected if exposed to the virus. On the other hand, 90 percent of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will get sick. About 20 percent of measles-positive individuals require hospitalization. Measles is particularly dangerous for kids under 5 years old, pregnant women and adults with weakened immune systems.
Signs of illness typically emerge between 1-2 weeks after coming in contact with the virus. Common symptoms are a cough, high-grade fever, swollen eyes and runny nose. A rash generally forms between 3 and 5 days following the initial symptoms. Approximately 1 in 10 children with measles will experience a secondary ear infection.
Full Story: USA Today
