GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – The University of Florida issued guidance to students and staff after the Florida Department of Health confirmed two cases of measles in Alachua County.
University officials say the health department is conducting contact tracing on two UF classes in which exposure to measles may have occurred.
The department has begun reaching out to the individuals in the classes where exposure was possible. Officials say students who aren’t contacted should not assume they were exposed.
Officials say most students and staff are immune to measles, either through vaccination or having contracted it prior to the availability of the vaccine.
Florida Department of Health records show the first case of measles was reported on Jan. 25; however, the data wasn’t available publicly until Thursday. The second case was apparently reported this week
In January, the department reported 9 cases statewide. In North Central Florida, Alachua County has the only cases reported this year.
Officials say measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air when someone who is infected breathes, coughs, or sneezes. The disease can remain infectious in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours.
UF Health officials provided TV20 the following statement about best practices regarding a possible measles infection.
“…Anyone who develops symptoms of measles — which include fever and rash, particularly when accompanied by cough, runny nose or red, watery eyes — or who is not fully vaccinated and has been exposed to someone with measles, should call their health care provider right away before going to their doctor’s office or to urgent care or the emergency room. Calling ahead allows care teams to give them guidance and take steps to protect other patients and staff. However, if symptoms are worsening and people are concerned they are experiencing a medical emergency, they should call 911 and inform the dispatcher if measles has been confirmed or is suspected.
In consultation with your health care provider, vaccination, a matter of personal choice, is the most effective way to prevent measles and help prevent spread to others, including young children and those with weakened immune systems.”
Though they say this outbreak comes as a shock to them, UF students shared they are not particularly worried about themselves, but about those who are unvaccinated, and may continue the spread.
” I would say definitely get vaccinated. I feel like that helps it not be as bad for sure. If you know someone who you come in contact with has gotten some kind of illness. I would say like definitely wash your hands in like continue monitoring symptoms if you start to feel sick,” shared UF Student Ria Saldajeno.
Students also shared that while Measles cases are rare in North Central Florida, it does not mean they have disappeared altogether, and awareness is key to limiting the spread of the disease.
“Maybe taking it, a step further would be awesome! Having the health department doing more tabling on campus, bringing more awareness to it. Or even something as little as hand sanitizer packets, so people can be able to just keep their hygiene up and stay clean to be able to help prevent the spread of measles,” added UF Student Janelle Sumbeling.
Some students shared they may be taking some time away from campus to ensure the safety of their loved ones, specifically those who have compromised immune systems.
Several students shared they were pleased with the University of Florida’s quick response and thorough email and hope to continue receiving transparent information and updates.
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