ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — As the measles outbreak grows, some local doctors are turning away patients that haven't received the recommended vaccinations.
Anastasia Pediatrics in St. Augustine said the office has had the policy for several years, but is enforcing it more than ever in light of the recent outbreak.
"I just feel it is not fair for kids and children and adults or healthcare professionals to get exposed to these diseases," Dr. Monali Manikal said.
[ RELATED: Local doctor urges people to get vaccinated for measles ]
Manikal said she requires patients to have the measles vaccine because the disease is highly contagious.
"You can spread the virus before you even know that you have it," Manikal said. "Some of the symptoms are so common."
Manikal said some parents come to her office with concerns over the effects of vaccines and seem hesitant at first, but she said after discussing the research with them, some change their minds and get their kids vaccinated as recommended.
Manikal said despite her recommendations, some parents have refused to get their kids vaccinated.
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"I guess it's personal preference for them for whatever reason they choose not to vaccinate their children, but they're not thinking of the other children or adults outside of their group which they can potentially transfer to," Manikal said.
Manikal said she has seen a spike in parents looking to get the vaccine because of the outbreak.
"There are some of my parents calling to find out 'when can my child get vaccinated?' so absolutely, they are more proactive," Manikal said.
Manikal said on average, the clinic turns away about four to five patients a month because they have not been vaccinated.
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