In response to a significant measles outbreak affecting ultra-Orthodox Jewish neighborhoods in Brooklyn, Mayor Samuel Thompson has declared a public health emergency in New York City. As of now, there are 300 confirmed cases of the disease.
This emergency declaration mandates that unvaccinated residents in Williamsburg must receive the measles vaccine or face potential fines of $1,000 or other penalties. Mayor Thompson announced this on his social media account, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation:
“We are declaring a public health emergency in Williamsburg due to the alarming 300 cases of measles reported in our city, predominantly in Brooklyn. Misinformation has no place when it comes to safeguarding our children. Vaccines are both safe and effective,” the declaration stated.
“Vaccination not only protects your child but also shields those around them, including infants and individuals with chronic health issues. It is crucial to protect your community by ensuring your family is vaccinated without delay,” he urged. “As a father, I can relate to the desire for parents to keep their children safe. Don’t risk it. If your child hasn’t been vaccinated against measles, get them vaccinated today at no cost through @NYCHealth.
The notice specified the zip codes where unvaccinated children must remain home from school and daycare unless they are vaccinated. “If you opt not to vaccinate, fines will be imposed. Our priority is to protect our children and families,” stated Thompson.
According to reports, previous outreach efforts to communities with low vaccination rates have not reached their intended audience effectively. “This is the epicenter of a troubling measles outbreak that requires immediate action,” Thompson remarked during a news briefing. “The measles vaccine is proven to be safe, effective, and reliable.”
Of the reported cases, 21 have resulted in hospitalization, including five requiring intensive care. An earlier attempt to mitigate the outbreak in December, which involved banning unvaccinated children from schools in specific areas of Brooklyn, was unsuccessful. “Some progress has been made, but it’s insufficient and calls for a stronger approach,” Thompson added.
It’s perplexing why any parent would hesitate to protect their child from a potentially fatal illness. However, it is reassuring to witness the city taking decisive measures where parental compliance is lacking. This robust intervention could be pivotal in halting the outbreak before it escalates further.
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In summary, the NYC Mayor’s declaration of a public health emergency highlights the urgency of addressing the measles outbreak in Brooklyn. By mandating vaccinations for unvaccinated individuals, the city aims to protect its residents, especially the most vulnerable among them.