Six young children at a day care center in Lubbock, Texas have tested positive for measles, sparking concerns of an accelerated outbreak. The Texas Department of State Health Services reported 481 confirmed cases, with 56 hospitalizations, and cases in other states. The outbreak at the Tiny Tots U Learning Academy started with a sick child in late March, with more children testing positive between 5 months and 3 years old, none fully vaccinated. The CDC has provided little guidance for handling measles in day care settings. The U.S. is facing its largest measles outbreak in six years, with funding cuts impacting vaccine clinics, potentially leading to more outbreaks in day care centers. Public health officials are concerned about further spread in child care facilities and advise vaccination and isolation of symptomatic children. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are recommended for lifetime protection, with the first dose typically given after the first birthday but can be administered earlier. It is crucial for child care facilities to monitor symptoms closely, isolate affected classrooms, and encourage families to vaccinate their children to prevent further outbreaks. Overall, health officials stress the importance of vaccination to protect children and prevent the spread of measles in day care settings and beyond.
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