Measles Cases Confirmed in Jacksonville
Two cases of pediatric measles have been confirmed in Jacksonville, according to Baptist Health.
As reported by the health system, the children, who are siblings living together, went to Baptist Health’s main campus seeking emergency care on January 16.
Officials at the hospital noted that both children received the necessary treatment and were released without needing hospitalization.
Baptist Health issued a statement saying:
“We are committed to the safety and health of our patients and staff. We have notified the Department of Health (DOH) about those who might have been exposed, and they will reach out to them directly.”
They further assured the public: “The chance of infection from exposure in our facility is very low, as our dedicated team in the pediatric Emergency Center is well-equipped to handle such situations.”
Measles is highly contagious and spreads through airborne transmission when someone infected coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms generally arise 7 to 14 days post-exposure, starting with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes. Afterward, small red spots appear, beginning on the head and moving downwards.
While the Florida Department of Health in Duval County couldn’t provide specific details due to an ongoing investigation, they stated:
“When a communicable disease is reported, DOH-Duval promptly initiates an investigation to ensure public health safety.”
If someone experiences measles symptoms, it’s essential not to directly visit a healthcare provider. Instead, they should contact their provider or local health department for guidance on seeking care safely.
Dr. Shalika Katugaha, the infectious diseases medical director at Baptist Medical, explained that measles can pose more severe risks for children.
“Children under 5 years old are particularly vulnerable to complications and even death. They indeed experience the illness more harshly than adults,” she emphasized.
Infants younger than 12 months are especially at risk for severe complications.
She elaborated, “The antibodies from their mothers decrease in these children, and they can’t receive routine vaccinations until they’re 9 to 12 months old.”
Measles can be transmitted easily among family members, both kids and adults.
To help safeguard families, the local Department of Health is providing immunizations.
DOH-Duval will host a “Pop-Up” Immunization Clinic on Sunday, February 1, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Regency Library, located at 9300 Regency Square Boulevard. Vaccines available will include MMR, flu, and hepatitis A.
Immunizations are also offered Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at these locations:
- 515 W. 6th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32206
- 3225 University Blvd. South, Jacksonville, FL 32216
Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments can also be scheduled by calling 904-253-1130.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children receive two doses of the MMR vaccine: the first between 12 and 15 months of age, and the second between 4 and 6 years old.
For infants aged 6 to 11 months intending to travel internationally, the CDC advises getting one dose of MMR before departure, followed by two additional doses after the first birthday.
