First Measles Case Confirmed in Michigan Since 2019
An Oakland County child travels internationally and tests positive for measles
An Oakland County child has been diagnosed with measles, marking the first confirmed case in Michigan since 2019, according to state health officials. The child, who recently traveled abroad, is believed to have been infected while abroad, and health authorities do not suspect any exposure outside of the child’s household.
Measles is an extremely contagious virus that can be prevented through vaccination. The virus spreads through direct person-to-person contact as well as respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. It can remain airborne for up to two hours after an infected person has been present.
Those at highest risk include individuals with unknown vaccination status, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems due to illnesses, such as HIV, malnutrition, or the use of immunosuppressive medications.
Symptoms and Complications
Symptoms of measles typically appear between seven to 21 days after exposure. The symptoms may include the following:
- High fever, which may spike to over 104°F
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth, appearing two to three days after the initial symptoms
- A red, raised, blotchy rash starting on the face and spreading to the trunk, arms, and legs, typically three to five days after the initial symptoms
Complications of measles can be serious and include pneumonia, brain swelling, ear infections leading to permanent hearing loss, preterm births, and low birthweights in babies.
Vaccination Importance and Coverage
Vaccination remains the best way to protect individuals and the community from measles and potential outbreaks. Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the state’s chief medical executive, emphasized the significance of staying up to date with routine vaccinations in preventing severe illness and the spread of diseases.
“If symptoms of measles develop, individuals are advised to call their healthcare providers or hospital emergency rooms ahead of time, ensuring necessary precautions are taken to prevent the exposure of others.”
Measles outbreaks have been reported in various parts of the United States, coinciding with declining immunization coverage. In 2022, Michigan’s vaccine coverage for the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine among 4 to 6-year-olds fell to 84%, while children aged 19-35 months dropped to 83.6% in December 2023. These figures indicate a concerning decrease from 89.4% coverage in 2017. A single dose of the measles vaccine offers about 93% protection, while two doses provide approximately 97% efficacy.
Contact Healthcare Providers for Vaccination Information
The state health department advises Michigan residents to contact their healthcare providers or local health departments for further information regarding vaccinations or to schedule appointments. By proactively seeking measles vaccinations, individuals can actively contribute to safeguarding themselves and their community.
Contact Kristen Shamus: [email protected]. Subscribe to the Free Press.
