Recently, three siblings from Anoka developed measles after a trip to Europe and were treated at Hennepin Healthcare. The Minnesota Department of Health is reaching out to individuals who were at the hospital during the same time as the siblings, urging them to be aware of the symptoms of measles. Measles is highly contagious and can spread through coughing or being in close contact with an infected person. Vaccinated individuals have a low risk of contracting measles, but unvaccinated individuals could develop symptoms within seven to 21 days of exposure.
School-age vaccination rates in the U.S. have been declining, with only about 93% of kindergarteners vaccinated against measles during the 2021-2022 school year. Experts warn that decreasing vaccination rates pose a threat to herd immunity and increase the risk of outbreaks in communities. It is crucial for parents to stay informed about the importance of vaccinations to protect their children and prevent the spread of contagious diseases like measles.
Parents should be aware that measles is highly contagious and can spread via coughing or being in close contact with an infected person. Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body.
Those who may have been exposed at Hennepin Healthcare should check their vaccination status, especially pregnant women or those who are immunocompromised. Unvaccinated individuals could develop symptoms within seven to 21 days of exposure.
Vaccinated individuals have a low risk of contracting measles, but it’s crucial for parents to ensure their children are up-to-date on their vaccinations to protect them from serious health complications associated with this disease.
In conclusion, parents must take action by staying informed about vaccinations’ importance and ensuring their children receive all necessary shots on time. Herd immunity relies on high vaccination rates among all members of society, including parents who need to play their part in preventing outbreaks like measles.
