KinderCare Learning Centers said that starting next week it will require measles vaccinations for staff members who work with infants too young to be vaccinated.
The national day care provider posted a notice about the vaccination requirement to its website on the same day that health officials announced measles diagnoses for several infants at a suburban Chicago location.
Two infants tested positive for the virus and test results for three others were pending, but those children had been diagnosed based on symptoms. At least 10 other children are at-risk of contracting measles.
"We want you to know about the actions we are taking in our centers and sites in response to the recent measles outbreak to help ensure the health and safety of our children, our families and our center communities," the noticed on the website read. "We are always working to create the healthiest and safest environment possible in our centers and sites."
A KinderCare spokesman said the vaccination was not previously a requirement, but officials are in the process of notifying parents and staff at facilities in 39 states that it will be required for those working with children under the age of 15 months.
The company said it will also encourage teachers to get vaccinated as well. They also plan to limit access to the infant rooms, and rooms with unvaccinated children, to parents or other adults dropping off or picking up an infant and immunized caregivers and field management personnel.
