The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated child.
The health department estimates 100 may have been exposed. They have been notified, public officials said.
Measles is a serious, contagious respiratory disease caused by the measles virus.
“Measles is a very serious disease. The best way to protect yourself and others against measles is to get vaccinated,” said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. Celeste Philip. “This case serves as a reminder for all residents to check their immunization records or contact their primary care provider’s office to make sure they are up to date on the measles vaccine as well as all recommended vaccines.”
Measles is spread through the air by breathing, coughing or sneezing, the health department said. People may experience a fever, cough and runny nose.
For more information on measles, please visit www.floridahealth.gov
The age of the child is not being released. But the health department confirmed the child is a girl who attended a public school. The child has withdrawn from the school, public officials said.
The measles case was confirmed June 16.
Florida requires certain vaccines to be administered before children may enroll and attend childcare and school.
Source: WFTV