In Lubbock, Texas, six young children at a day care center have tested positive for measles, contributing to a statewide outbreak that has now spread to at least two other states. The outbreak has led to 481 confirmed cases in Texas, with more than a dozen other states and Washington, D.C. also dealing with cases. The measles cases at the day care center began with a sick little girl who later needed to be hospitalized. The children who tested positive at the center were between 5 months and 3 years old and were not fully vaccinated against measles.
The center, Tiny Tots U Learning Academy, has been working with local health officials to manage the situation, but there is no clear guidance from the CDC on how to handle measles in such a large day care with many vulnerable children. The U.S. is currently facing its largest measles outbreak in six years, but the CDC has provided minimal information on the public health threat.
Public health officials are concerned about cases spreading in child care centers, with Lubbock’s public health director warning that additional outbreaks may occur. Other states, such as Kansas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico, have reported cases as well. Efforts are being made to reduce the risk of further spread by monitoring symptoms, isolating classrooms, and encouraging families to get vaccinated. Unvaccinated children have been asked to stay home for at least 21 days. The CDC recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for lifetime protection against measles.
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