Measles Outbreak: What Central Florida Needs to Know
Central Florida Birth Network advocates for informed decision making utilizing evidence based education and reliable sources. Should you have additional questions or concerns regarding your individual measles exposure risk please consult your healthcare provider.
Summary
At the time of this publication, the Broward county school district in South Florida has confirmed seven cases of measles.
Measles is a very contagious airborne illness that is easily spread and caused by a virus.
The measles virus is preventable but does not have specific treatment.
Measles infections in pregnant people carry increased risk of complications.
What is measles
Measles is a very contagious airborne viral disease, like other respiratory illnesses it spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. However it can linger in the area for up to two hours after the infected person has left the room. Per the CDC this makes measles such a contagious illness that if one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people around them will also become infected if they are not adequately protected.
Measles infects the respiratory tract and then spreads throughout the body. Symptoms include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a rash all over the body. Measles is infectious from 4 days prior to 4 days after the rash appears, because the rash does not immediately show up it is possible to to come in contact with someone who has measles and not be aware. It can cause serious complications for anyone who becomes infected thus its important to be aware of prevention methods, as well as the signs and symptoms to reduce your risk of exposure to illness.
Action steps
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccinating against measles; adults who have been vaccinated or previously exposed can pass immunity to their infants during birth. However anyone who is immunocompromised, has not been vaccinated, or previously exposed should practice social distancing and proper hand washing hygiene to reduce their risk of infection. Individuals who may have been exposed to measles or show signs of sickness should self isolate and seek immediate medical treatment to reduce the severity of the illness.
Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo advised parents of children where the measles outbreak was discovered that 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”...
Considerations
Because measles is a viral infection your healthcare provider will not provide antibiotics to treat it, nonetheless they can provide medications or support for accompanying symptoms and advise when symptoms require a visit to the hospital. Keep in mind that adults are at higher risk of developing complications from measles than children. Due to its unique nature, pregnant women and birthing people are at higher risk than the average adult particularly for developing pneumonia. A measles infection during pregnancy also carries an increased risk of complications such as miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth weight. Taking preventative measures and being aware of your exposure risk is key.
Closing note
Central Florida Birth Network advocates for informed decision making utilizing evidence based education and reliable sources. Should you have additional questions or concerns regarding your individual measles exposure risk please consult your healthcare provider.
Sources:
Should you worry about measles in South Florida? What to know as school cases found
by Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald (FEBRUARY 23, 2024)
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-02-measles-south-florida-school-cases.html
Measles and pregnancy
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/measles-and-pregnancy
Measles 9 August 2023
