Measles Case at St. Pete Catholic High School Amid Rising US Outbreak
Measles Resurgence in Florida: A Growing Concern
A confirmed case of measles at St. Petersburg Catholic High School is the latest sign of a worrying trend: a nationwide increase in measles cases. While 99.2% of students at the school are vaccinated, the case highlights the vulnerability of communities where vaccination rates, even if high, fall short of the 95% needed for robust herd immunity.
The Spread and Early Symptoms
Measles is highly contagious – more so than the common cold. Experts, like Dr. Patrick Mularoni of Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, emphasize that an unvaccinated person in a room with someone infected has a very high chance of contracting the virus. The initial symptoms aren’t always what people expect. It often begins with a cough, runny nose, fever, and red eyes, potentially seven to ten days before the characteristic rash appears, allowing ample time for the virus to spread unknowingly.
Florida’s Vaccination Landscape
Florida’s kindergarten vaccination rates for MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) are currently at 88.8%, below the 95% threshold for herd immunity. Here’s coupled with a higher-than-median non-medical exemption rate among kindergartners. The state has already reported 7 cases of measles since January 1, 2025, and nine cases have been reported statewide as of February 2, 2026. Hillsborough and Manatee Counties each reported a case in January.
National Trends and Declining Immunity
The CDC reports a significant jump in measles cases nationally. While weekly cases were minimal in early 2025, the week of January 11, 2026, saw 279 cases reported. Nationwide vaccination coverage has decreased from 95.2% in the 2019-2020 school year to 92.5% last school year, putting an estimated 286,000 U.S. Kindergarteners at risk.
The Challenge for Healthcare Providers
The re-emergence of measles presents a challenge for healthcare providers, many of whom haven’t encountered the disease in years due to successful vaccination programs. The subtle early symptoms can make diagnosis difficult. This underscores the importance of considering measles in the differential diagnosis, especially in unvaccinated individuals.
Impact of Vaccine Exemptions
The increasing availability of vaccine exemptions, as seen in the recent legislative discussions in Florida, is contributing to the decline in herd immunity. While exemptions are permitted for medical reasons, a rise in non-medical exemptions is a key factor driving the resurgence of preventable diseases like measles.
FAQ: Measles and Vaccination
Q: How effective is the MMR vaccine?
A: The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles, mumps, and rubella.
Q: What should I do if I suspect my child has measles?
A: Contact your healthcare provider immediately and inform them of your concerns before visiting the office.
Q: Is measles dangerous?
A: Yes, measles can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and even death.
Q: At what age should children receive the MMR vaccine?
A: Babies are typically vaccinated with the MMR vaccine when they are 12-15 months old.
Q: What is herd immunity?
A: Herd immunity occurs when a large percentage of the population is vaccinated, protecting those who cannot be vaccinated (e.g., infants, individuals with certain medical conditions).
Want to learn more about protecting your family from preventable diseases? Visit the CDC’s vaccination page for comprehensive information, and resources.