Two children in Florida have been diagnosed with measles following a decision by the state’s leading health official to diverge from federal guidelines aimed at curbing an outbreak at an elementary school.
The outbreak initially struck Manatee Bay Elementary School in Weston, near Fort Lauderdale, where six cases were reported over a week ago. Recent health data from the state reveal two additional cases in Broward County, involving a child under 5 years old and another aged between 5 and 9.
These new infections bring the total count to eight cases.
Officials from Broward County Public Schools clarified on Monday that the two latest measles cases, as reported by the Florida Department of Health, were not linked to Manatee Bay Elementary. According to the school district, the measles count at the elementary school remains at six. Consequently, approximately 200 students were absent from school last week due to the outbreak.
“We’re taking comprehensive measures at the school, including enhanced cleaning protocols and air filtration adjustments,” stated Dr. Peter Licata, Superintendent of Broward County Public Schools. “Additionally, we’re ensuring parents are kept well-informed throughout this situation.”
Going against CDC recommendations
Amidst the outbreak, there has been contention as the state diverged from recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding unvaccinated students.
Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Florida’s Surgeon General, explained, “When measles is detected in a school, it is normally recommended that individuals without history of prior infection or vaccination stay home for up to 21 days.”
Despite highlighting the contagious nature of measles, Ladapo noted, “DOH is deferring to parents or guardians to make decisions about school attendance.”
Individuals with a history of prior infection or vaccination who have received the full series of Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) immunization are 98% protected and are unlikely to contract measles, according to DOH. Up to 90% of individuals without immunity will contract measles if exposed.
Read more: Florida DOH defers to parents on school attendance amid measles outbreak
