Measles Outbreak at Florida Elementary School Raises Concerns Over Vaccination Rates

Six confirmed cases at Manatee Bay Elementary in Weston, Florida, highlight the importance of measles vaccination amid declining rates.

Six cases of measles have been confirmed at Manatee Bay Elementary School in Weston, Florida, sparking concerns over vaccination rates.
Florida's statewide MMR vaccination rate was around 91% for the 2022-23 school year, below the 95% threshold considered necessary for herd immunity.
The outbreak comes weeks after a nationwide alert about an uptick in measles cases, with 20 cases reported across 11 states this year.
Health officials emphasize the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is 97% effective after two doses.
The Florida Department of Health in Broward County is working with partners to identify contacts at risk of transmission and prevent further spread.