Health Departments across the country and in the Mid-Atlantic are reporting measles outbreaks.
New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland have each reported cases, but no one has been diagnosed with the virus in the First State.
Delaware’s Medical Director Dr. Rick Hong says the Division of Public Health is preparing for the potential spread of measles into Delaware.
“Given the location of the outbreaks, we are concerned that we may see a case of measles. So we are sending out awareness and education regarding vaccination for the public, as well as education to the providers on how to diagnose measles,” said Dr. Hong.
Hong cites Delaware’s annual school survey and says about 95% of Delawareans have been vaccinated for Measles, Mumps and Rubella.
He encourages all who have not received the MMR vaccine to see their doctor.
The measles was declared eliminated in the United States in the year 2000. Health officials are attributing the current outbreak to international travel and contact with unvaccinated populations.