News coverage of a measles outbreak in Florida and cases in 14 other states led to online discourse about the disease and the MMR vaccine. Much of the discourse is related to the Florida surgeon general’s letter to parents, which does not encourage vaccination and allows unvaccinated children to continue attending school. Some online posts falsely claim that measles isn’t real and that recent measles outbreaks are linked to vaccination campaigns.
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The continued circulation of false claims about the measles vaccine amid an ongoing outbreak may cause hesitancy. Continuing to highlight that measles is highly contagious and potentially deadly yet preventable through vaccination is recommended, as is emphasizing that the CDC recommends that unvaccinated people isolate for the 21-day measles virus incubation period after exposure. Talking points may emphasize that vaccines do not cause measles. The MMR vaccine is very safe, highly effective, and the best protection against measles. For more information on how to respond to tough questions about the outbreaks, visit our Messaging Resource and Answers to Tough Public Health Questions on measles and the measles (MMR) vaccine. Fact-Checking Source(s): FactCheck.org, Full Fact
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