Doctors Urge Vaccine as Superintendent, Surgeon General Discuss Palmetto High Measles Outbreak
School and Health Department Take Precautions
The measles outbreak at Palmetto Senior High School is still confined to one student, according to the Florida Department of Health and Miami-Dade County Public Schools. The state’s surgeon general revealed that the student is a girl, but her name and age remain unknown. On Thursday afternoon, Superintendent Dr. Jose Dotres spoke about the outbreak for the first time.
“We are confident that in working with the Department of Health, we are taking every step possible,” Dotres said, adding that the University of Miami’s mobile vaccine unit is planning to visit the school. “They are going to be providing vaccines in that community in the event that there are any students that may need the MMR, the vaccine rate at Palmetto is 99.7%.”
Vaccination Efforts
Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Florida’s Surgeon General, discussed the situation at a news conference and stopped short of urging parents to get their kids the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine. “We also have measles vaccines available in that part of the state for any parents who want them, that option is there also,” Dr. Ladapo said.
Experts Weigh In
Dr. Payal Shah, assistant professor of pediatrics at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine, says the anti-vax movement has caused Florida to lose herd immunity against measles. “I would say that is really the number one reason, we find that parents are more and more hesitant to get primary routine vaccines,” Dr. Shah said.
Ladapo endorses an approach recommended by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, who is not a scientist or a doctor. “My friend Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is taking some heat for making a recommendation around vitamin A, but that’s completely a good idea for anyone who is severely ill from measles,” Ladapo said.
However, Dr. Shah disagrees, stating that the MMR vaccine does not cause autism. “So I think it’s very important for us to combat misinformation, encourage vaccination and really reassure parents and families that the vaccine is safe,” she said.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the measles outbreak at Palmetto Senior High School?
The outbreak is still confined to one student, according to the Florida Department of Health and Miami-Dade County Public Schools.
What is the recommended course of action for parents?
Dr. Shah recommends getting the MMR vaccine, which is available at the University of Miami’s mobile vaccine unit.
What is the current vaccine rate at Palmetto Senior High School?
The vaccine rate is 99.7%, according to Dr. Dotres.
What is Dr. Shah’s position on the MMR vaccine?
Dr. Shah is a strong advocate for the MMR vaccine, stating that it is safe and effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella.
Conclusion
The measles outbreak at Palmetto Senior High School highlights the importance of vaccination and the need for parents to take action to protect their children. Dr. Shah’s expert opinion is clear: the MMR vaccine is safe and effective, and it is crucial for people to get vaccinated to protect each other. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for parents to seek accurate information and take the necessary steps to ensure their children’s health and well-being.
