In the wake of a major measles outbreak, a New York county has decided to ban all unvaccinated children from public spaces. Rockland County has instituted a countywide ban that will last for 30 days or until unvaccinated kids receive the MMR vaccine.

The county has confirmed more than 150 cases of measles. Ed Day, the county executive, made the announcement at a press conference calling it a public health crisis and stating:

“We must not allow this outbreak to continue. We will not sit idly by while children in our community are at risk.”

Children not allowed to be in churches, schools, or public shopping areas, but playgrounds are not prohibited. If one is caught violating the order, parents could be in trouble. However, questions about how this rule will be enforced have come up.

County officials are counting on parents to use the honor system and abide by the ban. If someone knows that a parent or minor child is not being compliant, they can report the family to law enforcement.

According to the New York Times, outbreak numbers have been high in Orthodox Jewish communities throughout New York where vaccination rates are low. Health officials in these areas are trying to work with families and religious figures to spread the word about immunizations and health safety.

Watch the video below to learn more about Rockland County’s “unusual” move, enforcement measures, and how parents in the community are reacting.

 

Do you think the county made a wise decision? Were you aware of the major outbreak in New York? Do you believe the ban will be effective?