The Broward County Health Department in Florida began an investigation after multiple measles cases were confirmed at a Weston elementary school in February.
DOH-Broward is working with multiple partners, including Broward County Public Schools and local hospitals, to identify at-risk contacts, according to a press release.
Measles is highly contagious, remaining contagious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, and has a contraction rate of over 90%, the DOH said.
The DOH also said that people who have received the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccination series are 98% protected and have a very low chance of contracting measles.
“The Broward County, Florida Department of Health (DOH-Broward) is conducting an epidemiological investigation into multiple measles cases that occurred at an elementary school in Weston, Florida,” the statement said. “Please note that all details related to the investigation are confidential. DOH-Broward continues to work with all partners, including Broward County Public Schools and local hospitals, to ensure that the Contacts are being identified.”
According to the DOH, the most noticeable symptom of measles is a rash, which often occurs on the face and neck and can spread to other parts of the body.
However, before this rash appears, symptoms of measles include:
- high fever
- cough
- snot
- Red and watery eyes
DOH urges residents who suspect or notice any of the listed symptoms to contact their health care provider and seek medical attention without infecting others.
They recommend that patients contact their health care provider before making an in-person visit.
