At Crèche Day School, the health and safety of our children and families are our top priorities. With recent measles outbreaks making headlines, we understand that parents may have important questions:
To provide clear and reliable guidance, we consulted Dr. Melissa Rosso, M.D., M.P.H., of Stonecreek Family Physicians, who shares expert insights on measles prevention and community health.
Measles is more than just a rash—it’s one of the most contagious viruses in the world. It spreads through airborne particles when an infected person coughs or sneezes and can survive on surfaces for hours. Babies and young children are particularly vulnerable to severe complications, making prevention critical.
➡️ The good news? The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease. ⬅️
“Everyone wants happy, healthy kids, and the current measles outbreak has a lot of families worried. Reassuringly, there are no current cases in Kansas or the surrounding states. Even one dose of the MMR vaccine (routinely given at 12 months) provides 90% protection against measles.”
Misinformation about measles and vaccines is spreading online. Let’s set the record straight:
❌ Myth: The measles vaccine caused the Texas outbreak.✅ Truth: The outbreak was not caused by the vaccine. The best way to prevent measles is to ensure your child receives the MMR vaccine.
❌ Myth: Vitamin A can prevent or treat measles at home.✅ Truth: While vitamin A may help reduce complications in diagnosed cases, it does not prevent or cure measles. Only vaccination protects against infection.
❌ Myth: The MMR vaccine isn’t very effective.✅ Truth: The MMR vaccine is 97% effective when both recommended doses are received.
For additional expert insights, visit: AAP News
The CDC and AAP recommend children receive their first MMR dose between 12 to 16 months. If your baby is under 12 months and not yet eligible, follow these steps to reduce risk:
🔹 Avoid crowded places where exposure risk is higher.🔹 Ensure all caregivers and family members are fully vaccinated.🔹 Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.🔹 Stay informed about outbreaks in your area.
For detailed vaccine recommendations, visit: AAP Measles Resource
While outbreaks are concerning, there are currently no reported cases in Kansas or surrounding states. The most effective way to protect your child and community is timely MMR vaccination. For latest updates, visit: CDC Measles Data
If you have any concerns, it's best to talk with your pediatrician or family physician. They can provide personalized guidance based on your child’s health and vaccination history. At Crèche, we remain committed to keeping families informed and children healthy. Thank you for prioritizing your child’s well-being and helping us create a safe learning environment for all.
