Yes.
Manatee and Hillsborough counties each have reported a measles case as of Jan. 17.
Measles is a highly contagious virus with symptoms including high fever, rash, runny nose, cough and red and watery eyes. It can cause serious health complications for those under 5 years old.
It was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but has returned due to lowered vaccination rates. The best way to stay protected against measles is to get your measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In all, there have been six reported measles cases in Florida this month, with two coming from the Tampa Bay area. Kindergarteners in Florida have a vaccination rate of 88.8%, lower than the 95% needed for herd immunity.
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Sources
- Florida Senate SB 1756 Bill Analysis, Page 15
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Measles Info Page
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Measles Cases and Outbreaks
- Florida Department of Health Reportable Disease Frequency Report
