Cayman public health officials on Friday warned the public to make sure they are protected after outbreaks of measles across the United States.
Dr. Samuel Williams-Rodriguez, the medical officer for health, said, “The measles virus is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications.
“Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent infection and reduce the risk of outbreaks in the community.”
He was speaking after the US recorded outbreaks in several states, including New York, North Carolina and Texas.
Measles is a serious disease that spreads through respiratory droplets and can lead to severe problems, including pneumonia, encephalitis — inflammation of the brain — and even death.
Children ages 1 to 17 and young adults between 18 and 23 are most at risk of catching measles because of mixing with others in educational settings.
Common symptoms of the disease are rashes after a fever, coughing, respiratory infections, conjunctivitis, known as pink eye, and a sore throat.
But the measles, mumps and rubella or MMR vaccine is a safe and effective way to prevent infection and possible complications.
The Cayman Islands Molecular Biology Laboratory at the Health Services Authority provides free tests for measles for people who have symptoms or have been exposed to infection.
Williams-Rodriguez said, “Our surveillance and laboratory testing capabilities allow us to identify and respond to potential measles cases promptly.”
He added, “We encourage anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, and a rash to seek medical attention immediately.
“While these symptoms are also common during flu season, they may indicate other illnesses requiring specific medical evaluation and care.”
Parents told to check vaccination status
Parents should check the immunisation records of children to make sure they are up-to-date. Jabs are usually given to infants at 15 and 18 months old.
Officials said that children who felt unwell should not be taken to school, group activities or playdates.
Officials said school and other activities can restart after children feel better and have been fever free for 24 hours.
Dr. Nick Gent, the chief medical officer, said the aim was to protect Cayman’s children at home and abroad.
He added, “That means ensuring that Caymanians and Cayman residents who are studying in the United States are also included in our awareness and immunisation efforts.”
The Public Health Department will hold two MMR vaccination clinics on Saturday, 1 March and Saturday, 8 March for people who need to update their vaccinations, particularly school-age children, at the public health clinic at Smith Road Medical Centre from 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Officials said parents and guardians should bring their children’s immunisation records to the clinic for review.
If a child is missing an MMR dose, jabs will be given at no cost to patients.
For more information on measles, vaccination schedules or to check immunisation status, contact the Public Health Department at 244-2648 or 244-2889 or visit hsa.ky.
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