Orlando Health Confirms Measles Cases in Central Florida Emergency Departments
Orlando Health has confirmed four cases of measles in its Central Florida emergency departments within the past month, with one case in an adult and three cases in children less than 2 years old. This is particularly concerning as the Florida Department of Health has only reported two measles cases in kids less than 2 years old in 2024, suggesting that at least one case treated by Orlando Health was not included in the state’s tally.
The state health department has reported 10 measles cases in Florida in 2024, with many cases linked to community spread at Manatee Bay Elementary in Weston. Despite this, Florida officials have stated that there is no community outbreak of measles in Orlando and cases identified in the area were likely contracted elsewhere.
Health care providers are required by law to report suspected measles cases to local health departments for investigation and contact tracing. The recent measles outbreak in the United States has been mainly related to international travel, with at least 35 cases reported in 15 states in 2024.
Efforts by news outlets to obtain more information about measles cases were sometimes met with silence from the Department of Health, leading to criticism of their methods and transparency. Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo’s advice to keep unvaccinated children home during outbreaks has also been criticized by experts in public health as contrary to established protocols.
Vaccination remains highly effective in preventing measles, with two shots conferring lifetime immunity. As the situation continues to develop, it is crucial for health authorities to provide clear and timely information to the public to prevent further spread of the disease.
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