An outbreak of measles in Lubbock, Texas has impacted six young children at a day care center, adding to the already out-of-control outbreak in the state. The total number of confirmed cases in Texas has risen to 481, with over 50 hospitalizations. The day care center outbreak started when a sick child tested positive, leading to other cases among children aged 5 months to 3 years old who were not fully vaccinated.
The CDC has sent vaccines to Texas to help combat the outbreak, but has not held a news briefing about measles since 2019. Funding cuts to community health departments have forced some areas to cancel vaccine clinics, potentially exacerbating the outbreak. Other states with measles outbreaks include Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Ohio.
Health officials in Lubbock are concerned about the spread of measles in child care centers, with more outbreaks likely. The day care center affected is taking precautions to prevent further spread by closely monitoring children for symptoms and isolating certain classrooms. Families are urged to get vaccinated, and unvaccinated children are being asked to stay home for at least 21 days. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for lifetime protection against measles.
Despite the challenges, the day care center owner remains vigilant and acknowledges that measles is spreading. The situation underscores the urgent need for vaccination and public health measures to prevent further outbreaks.
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