Measles case reported at Miami Palmetto Senior High School
A student at Miami Palmetto Senior High School in Pinecrest has been diagnosed with measles, the first reported case in Miami-Dade County this year, prompting health officials to offer free vaccinations, according to an email obtained by CBS News Miami.
The email, sent to parents, stated that while the risk of transmission is considered low for vaccinated individuals, the school is working with local health authorities to take necessary precautions.
The school, located in the 7400 block of SW 120th St., will host a free MMR immunization drive from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the week of March 10, 2025, for unvaccinated students with parental consent.
The Miami-Dade County Health Department will notify parents of students who had close contact with the infected individual.
The case comes amid reports of measles outbreaks in other states, including Texas, and follows cases reported in neighboring Broward County last year.
Email sent to parents
Subject: Health Protocol
We want to inform you that a student at Miami Palmetto Senior High has been diagnosed with measles. While the risk of transmission may be low for vaccinated individuals, we are taking all necessary precautions while working closely with local health authorities to ensure the health and safety of our school community.
As part of the District's and local health department's protocols, the local health department will notify parents and guardians of students who had close contact with the student.
What You Need to Know:
Measles is a viral illness that spreads through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and a rash that usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
If your child is experiencing symptoms or has been diagnosed with measles, please notify the school immediately
Steps to Prevent Infection:
• Check Vaccination Records: Ensure that your child has received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. The CDC recommends two doses for full protection.
• Watch for Symptoms: If your child develops flu -like symptoms, please keep them home and contact the school principal and healthcare provider immediately.
• Limit Exposure: Avoid contact with anyone known to have measles and practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.
• Seek Medical Advice: If your child is not vaccinated or has a weakened immune system, consult with a doctor about additional precautions.
The local health department will be hosting a free MMR immunization drive at Palmetto Senior High School on the week of March 10, 2025 from 09:00 AM-2:00 PM for any unvaccinated student whose parents provide consent.
The health and safety of our school community is our top priorities. If you have any questions, please contact the school or health department.
