Florida is facing a public health challenge as a measles outbreak spreads across several counties, raising serious concerns among healthcare professionals, parents, and public officials. As of early 2025, the measles outbreak in Florida has led to a growing number of confirmed cases, triggering emergency responses from the Florida Department of Health and the CDC.

Once considered eradicated in the U.S., measles has made a concerning comeback—largely due to declining vaccination rates in certain areas. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Florida measles outbreak, including how it spreads, symptoms to watch out for, prevention strategies, and what actions you should take right now to protect yourself and your family.

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the measles virus, a member of the paramyxovirus family. It primarily spreads through airborne respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Key Facts About Measles:

• Transmission: Airborne and person-to-person contact
• Incubation Period: 7–14 days
• Contagiousness: One of the most contagious diseases—an infected person can spread measles to 90% of nearby non-immune individuals
• Complications: Pneumonia, encephalitis, hearing loss, and in rare cases, death

The virus can survive on surfaces and in the air for up to two hours, making environments like schools, daycare centers, and clinics hotspots for rapid transmission.

Current Status of the Measles Outbreak in Florida

As of April 2025, Florida has reported over 25 confirmed measles cases, with outbreaks concentrated in Miami-Dade, Broward, Orange, and Hillsborough counties. Most of these cases involve unvaccinated children under the age of 10, though some adults have also been affected.

Affected areas include:

• Miami-Dade County (9 cases)
• Broward County (5 cases)
• Orange County (4 cases)
• Hillsborough County (3 cases)
• Isolated cases in Jacksonville and the Panhandle region

The Florida Department of Health has issued statewide alerts and initiated emergency vaccination clinics. The CDC is also monitoring the situation and has deployed additional epidemiologists to assist local health departments.

Update: According to the latest data, 80% of the affected individuals were not vaccinated, highlighting a clear correlation between low vaccination coverage and outbreak intensity.

Symptoms of Measles to Watch For

Recognizing measles early is crucial to limit its spread and ensure timely treatment. Symptoms usually appear 10 to 14 days after exposure and develop in stages.

Early Symptoms (Stage 1):

• High fever (up to 104°F / 40°C)
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
• Fatigue and loss of appetite

Advanced Symptoms (Stage 2):

• Koplik Spots: Small white spots with blue centers inside the mouth (early indicator before rash)
• Skin Rash: Starts on the face and spreads downward to the trunk, arms, and legs
• Rash typically lasts 5–7 days and fades in the same order it appeared

If you or your child show these symptoms, especially after known exposure or travel, isolate immediately and contact your healthcare provider.

Who is at Highest Risk?

Certain populations are at significantly higher risk during the Florida measles outbreak:

1. Unvaccinated Children

Children under 5 years old who haven’t received the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine are most vulnerable.

2. Immunocompromised Individuals

People undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplants, or those with autoimmune diseases may not be able to fight off the infection.

3. Pregnant Women

Measles during pregnancy can lead to complications like miscarriage, preterm labor, or low birth weight.

4. International Travelers

People traveling from or to countries with ongoing outbreaks may be exposed.

How to Prevent Measles During the Florida Outbreak

The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination.

MMR Vaccine Facts:

• First dose at 12–15 months of age
• Second dose at 4–6 years
• 97% effective after two doses
• Safe and well-studied with minimal side effects

Where to Get Vaccinated in Florida:

• County health departments
• Urgent care centers
• Pediatricians and general practitioners
• Emergency pop-up vaccine clinics (check your county’s health website)

If you’re unsure of your or your child’s vaccination status, talk to your doctor about getting an MMR booster.

Use this time to check your vaccine records—especially before school enrollments and travel plans.

Florida Health Department & CDC Response

Emergency Actions Taken:

• Free MMR vaccination clinics in affected counties
• Temporary school exclusions for unvaccinated students
• Travel advisories in outbreak zones
• Public awareness campaigns on radio, social media, and local news

The CDC has also provided a rapid response team to assist with contact tracing and case containment. Schools and daycare centers have been advised to report suspected symptoms immediately.

What to Do If You Suspect Measles

If you or a loved one shows symptoms or have been in contact with a confirmed case:

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Isolate the suspected individual at home
2. Call your healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or hospital
3. Get tested to confirm diagnosis
4. Inform local health authorities if confirmed
5. Notify recent contacts, especially in schools or workplaces

Avoid public places for at least 4 days after the rash appears or until cleared by a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

The current measles outbreak in Florida is a serious reminder of how quickly preventable diseases can resurface when vaccination coverage drops. With over two dozen confirmed cases and numbers rising, staying informed, vigilant, and proactive is crucial.

🛡️ Here’s What You Can Do Today:

• Check and update your family’s MMR vaccination status
• Watch for early signs of measles
• Stay away from outbreak zones if possible
• Follow local health advisories and CDC guidelines
• Share accurate information with your community

The good news? Measles can be stopped—with timely action, proper vaccination, and community awareness. Don’t wait for it to reach your neighborhood. Take action now to keep your family and your community safe.

🔗 Additional Resources

• Florida Department of Health – Measles Information
• CDC Measles Outbreak Updates
• World Health Organization – Measles Fact Sheet

FAQs About the Measles Outbreak in Florida

Q1: Can vaccinated people still get measles?

Yes, but it’s rare. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are 97% effective. If a vaccinated person does get measles, symptoms are usually milder and less contagious.

Q2: Is the MMR vaccine safe for children?

Absolutely. The MMR vaccine has been safely used for decades and is recommended by the CDC, WHO, and American Academy of Pediatrics.

Q3: How long will this outbreak last?

That depends on the public response. Increasing vaccination coverage and quick reporting can drastically reduce the outbreak timeline.

Q4: Is measles deadly?

While rare in the U.S., complications from measles can lead to pneumonia, brain swelling (encephalitis), or death—especially in children and those with weak immune systems.

Q5: Can adults get vaccinated?

Yes. Adults born after 1957 who have not had measles or the vaccine should get at least one MMR dose.