In an effort to prevent the spread of measles, the city of Apopka in Florida is launching a comprehensive vaccination campaign starting Monday. This initiative comes as the Florida Department of Health has reported a total of ten cases of measles in the state, with nine in Broward County and one in Polk County.

Measles, typically considered a childhood illness, can affect individuals of all ages and is highly contagious. Symptoms usually appear one to two weeks after exposure, including high fevers, coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, and in some cases, a characteristic rash.

To combat the outbreak, Apopka is joining forces with Orange County Public Schools and other community partners to organize a series of vaccination clinics across the area. These clinics will provide convenient access to measles vaccinations, helping individuals protect themselves and prevent further transmission of the disease.

The vaccination campaign will commence with a press conference on March 4, 2024, at 9 a.m. at the Farmworker Association of Florida, located at 1264 Apopka Blvd., Apopka, FL 32703. Following the press conference, two vaccination sessions will be held at the Farmworker Association of Florida on March 5 and March 8, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Additional vaccination clinics will be hosted at the Hope CommUnity Center South on March 11 and March 12, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m., located at 800 S. Hawthorne Ave., Apopka, FL 32703. The campaign will conclude with vaccination sessions at the Hope CommUnity Center North on March 14 and March 15, 2024, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The city of Apopka aims to raise awareness about the importance of vaccinations and urges all residents, regardless of age, to take advantage of these accessible clinics. By getting vaccinated, individuals can safeguard their health and contribute to the collective effort in halting the spread of measles within the community.

It is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant and follow the recommended immunization guidelines provided by healthcare professionals and the Florida Department of Health. With coordinated efforts and widespread vaccination, Apopka aims to prevent further cases of measles and ensure the well-being of its residents.