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4 new measles cases reported in Fayette County

by DrMichaelLee
written by DrMichaelLee

Kentucky Measles Cases Rise Amid Outbreak

Eight cases now linked to the Woodford-Fayette County outbreak.

Health officials in Lexington are grappling with a growing measles outbreak, with four new cases identified in **Fayette County**. These cases are connected to the ongoing outbreak first detected in **Woodford County** and **Fayette County**.

Key Updates on the Outbreak

The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department reports that the newly identified cases are all household contacts of the initial **Fayette County** case. Authorities emphasize that the individuals have been under quarantine since the outbreak’s beginning.

According to health officials, the quarantining of the infected individuals means there is no known additional risk to the public from these cases.

Statewide Impact

Beyond the central Kentucky outbreak, a separate measles case was confirmed in **Todd County** on June 27. With these new infections, the total number of measles cases reported in Kentucky during 2025 has reached 11.

Measles outbreaks are on the rise globally. The World Health Organization reports a 79% increase in measles cases worldwide in 2023, compared to 2022, underscoring the need for vigilance and vaccination (WHO, 2023).

Health department banner

The health department continues to monitor the situation closely and urges residents to ensure they are vaccinated against measles. Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of the disease.

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Health

Measles Outbreak: 3rd Case Confirmed in Grand Traverse County

by DrMichaelLee
written by DrMichaelLee

Measles Outbreak Declared in Grand Traverse County After Third Case Confirmed

Table of Contents

GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich. – Health officials have declared a measles outbreak in Grand traverse County following the confirmation of a third case on Monday, June 23, 2025. The Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) jointly announced the outbreak, which is defined as three or more related cases of the highly contagious disease.

Measles Cases Rise in Michigan County

The initial measles case was reported on June 18, 2025, marking the first instance of the disease in Grand Traverse County since 2019. A second case followed just two days later, prompting increased vigilance from local health authorities.

Did You Know? Measles was declared eliminated in the United States in 2000, but cases still occur, primarily due to international travel and spread among unvaccinated communities. The CDC provides updated information on measles cases and outbreaks in the U.S. CDC Measles Information

Mike Lahey, MPH, Health Officer at GTCHD, emphasized the importance of public health action. “It is indeed critically important that we, as the public health department, take action to protect, maintain, and improve the health of our community,” Lahey stated. “Measles is a serious disease, and we want to make sure that our residents and visitors are safe.Those who are not vaccinated against measles should consider getting vaccinated during this busy travel time in our community. It is important to make sure you protect yourself and your family from this vaccine-preventable disease.”

No New Public Exposure Sites Identified

The GTCHD has confirmed that all identified cases in Grand Traverse County are linked, and there are currently no new public exposure sites to report.

Recognizing Measles Symptoms

Measles symptoms typically manifest 7 to 14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days later. Key symptoms include:

  • High fever (potentially spiking above 104°F)
  • Cough
  • Runny nose
  • Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
  • Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots), which may appear 2-3 days after initial symptoms
  • A red, raised, blotchy rash that usually begins on the face and spreads to the trunk, arms, and legs within 3-5 days

What to Do If You Suspect Measles

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact their healthcare provider. If seeking in-person medical care, it is crucial to call ahead and inform the doctor’s office, urgent care center, or emergency room about the potential measles exposure before arrival. This allows facilities to implement necessary precautions to prevent further spread.

pro Tip: The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles. Two doses are about 97% effective at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective.World Health Organization – Measles

In cases where exposure occurred less than six days prior, post-exposure treatment may be available to prevent illness. Contact your healthcare provider, pharmacy, or local health department for vaccination options and guidance.

Measles outbreak Summary – Grand Traverse County,MI
Metric Value
Date of First Case June 18,2025
Date of Outbreak Declaration June 23,2025
Number of Confirmed Cases 3
GTCHD Measles Hotline 231-995-6800

GTCHD Measles Hotline Information

The GTCHD has established a measles hotline accessible during regular business hours,monday through Friday,from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 231-995-6800. The hotline will also be monitored from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 21st, and Sunday, June 22nd. Outside of these hours, Grand Traverse County residents can contact 2-1-1 for assistance.

Understanding Measles: An Evergreen Perspective

Measles, a highly contagious viral disease, remains a global health concern despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccine. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Before the introduction of the measles vaccine in 1963, measles was a common childhood illness. Widespread vaccination efforts have dramatically reduced measles cases worldwide, but outbreaks continue to occur, especially in areas wiht low vaccination rates. The resurgence of measles in recent years underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination coverage to protect individuals and communities from this preventable disease.

Frequently Asked Questions About Measles

How contagious is measles?

Measles is extremely contagious. It can spread easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Up to 90% of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to the measles virus will become infected.

How can I protect myself and my family from measles?

The best way to protect yourself and your family from measles is to get vaccinated with the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine. Two doses of the MMR vaccine are highly effective in preventing measles.

Are there any risks associated with the measles vaccine?

The MMR vaccine is vrey safe and effective.Most peopel experience no serious side effects.Common side effects are usually mild, such as fever or a rash.

How long is a person with measles contagious?

A person with measles is contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after the rash appears.

Can adults get measles?

Yes, adults can get measles if they are not vaccinated or have not had the disease before. Adults who are unsure of their vaccination status should consult with their healthcare provider.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Have you or your family been vaccinated against measles? What steps do you take to stay healthy during travel? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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Health

US Urges Measles Vaccination for All International Travelers

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

CDC Updates Measles Vaccination Recommendations for International Travelers

U.S. health authorities have revised their guidance on measles vaccinations for international travelers, now advising that all Americans should be vaccinated against the virus, regardless of their destination.

Key Changes in CDC recommendations

  • Global Vaccination: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now recommends measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination for all U.S. residents, a shift from previous guidelines that primarily emphasized vaccination for those traveling to countries experiencing outbreaks.
  • Updated Guidelines: The CDC updated its guidelines last week, extending the vaccination proposal to travelers heading to all international destinations.

Expert Insights

Ashley Darcy-Mahoney, a researcher at the George Washington University School, emphasized the significance of this update. We are seeing a change of outbreaks to transmission in transit, and the CDC seem to be responding to that.

Did you know? Measles is highly contagious and can spread quickly through airborne transmission. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection.

Darcy-Mahoney noted that a recent measles outbreak in Colorado originated from an international flight landing in Denver.He explained that the change in the CDC travel notice reflects recognition that people are not onyl being exposed to measles in countries where they are spreading, but also in airplanes and during the trip.

Vaccination Details

  • Recommended Dosage: The updated travel notice advises two doses of the MMR vaccine for all Americans aged one year and older.
  • Infants: An early dose is recommended for babies aged six to 11 months who are traveling internationally.

Measles Cases in the U.S.

The United States has reported more than 1,000 measles cases this year.

Pro Tip: Check your vaccination records and consult with your healthcare provider at least one month before international travel to ensure you are up-to-date on all recommended vaccines.

FAQ: measles Vaccination and Travel

Why is the CDC changing its recommendations?
The CDC is responding to a shift in measles transmission, with outbreaks increasingly linked to travel and transit.
Who should get vaccinated?
All Americans aged one year and older should receive two doses of the MMR vaccine before traveling internationally.
What about babies traveling internationally?
Babies aged six to 11 months should receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine before traveling.
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Health

Spain: The Brand the World Expects

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

Spanish Vaccine Shows Promise in Tuberculosis Fight

CITY – May 9, 2024 – The development of a promising new tuberculosis vaccine in Spain could revolutionize treatment of this deadly disease, according to new reports. For more than 25 years, researchers have worked on MTBVAC, which has shown promising clinical trial results.The vaccine is expected to potentially replace the BCG vaccine by 2028. With phase three trials starting in India, the world is watching to see if the new treatment will be accessible soon.

Spanish Vaccine Shows Promise in Tuberculosis Fight

A New Hope Against a Lethal Disease

For more than 25 years, Dr. Carlos Martín and veterinarian Esteban Rodríguez have dedicated their careers to developing a vaccine that could revolutionize the treatment of tuberculosis (TB), the world’s most lethal infectious disease. The current, century-old BCG vaccine may soon have a competitor. The Spanish vaccine, MTBVAC, has demonstrated promising results and could potentially replace it by 2028.

MTBVAC: A Spanish Commitment

MTBVAC began its growth in the 1990s, spurred by a multi-resistant tuberculosis outbreak in Malaga. Dr. Martín,a microbiologist trained at the Pasteur Institute,gained crucial insights during this period.Clinical trials are now in their final stages, including phase three trials for newborns and phase two B trials for adults. MTBVAC is emerging as a leading candidate among the few vaccines in advanced efficacy studies worldwide to replace the BCG (Calmette and Guérin bacillus) vaccine, which has been in use since 1920.

The Limitations of BCG

The primary limitation of the BCG vaccine is that it only protects infants from disseminated TB, the most severe form of the disease. It is ineffective in adolescents and adults, who are more prone to developing respiratory or pulmonary tuberculosis, the most common and transmissible form.

Clinical Trial Progress

Since 2022, clinical trials have been underway in South Africa, Senegal, and Madagascar, vaccinating over 4,000 newborns with MTBVAC. the goal is to reach 7,500 participants, requiring an estimated two more years of vaccination followed by two years of follow-up. Another trial involving 4,200 adolescents and adults in South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania has also been conducted.While the results are yet to be published,Dr. Martín stated that the vaccine is safe and immunogenic in previously infected with tuberculosis and not infected.

Future Prospects

Phase three trials are set to begin in India, involving approximately 30,000 adults and adolescents. Rodríguez anticipates that if everything goes well, the vaccine will complete all regulatory procedures by 2028,potentially allowing for commercialization from 2029.

Did you know?

Tuberculosis is a leading cause of death worldwide, particularly in developing countries. The World Health Institution (WHO) estimates that TB infects millions of people each year.

Affordability and Accessibility

Developing a vaccine requires significant investment, typically around $1 billion. While the adolescent and adult studies for MTBVAC are fully funded, the newborn trials still require approximately 22 million euros. Rodríguez noted that although a baby vaccine was vrey effective, the result is seen in 20 years, which makes its social impact so strong and, therefore, does not attract financing.

The University of Zaragoza is committed to ensuring that the vaccine is accessible and affordable in endemic and impoverished countries. The plan is to produce and supply the vaccine through centers in Spain, India, and South America. Biofabri will also authorize its manufacture in countries with a high burden of the disease through licensing agreements.

Pro Tip

Staying informed about global health initiatives and supporting organizations dedicated to fighting infectious diseases can make a critically important impact on public health outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is MTBVAC?
MTBVAC is an experimental vaccine developed in Spain to combat tuberculosis.
How is MTBVAC different from the current BCG vaccine?
MTBVAC aims to protect both infants and adults from tuberculosis, unlike the BCG vaccine, which is primarily effective in infants.
When will MTBVAC be available?
If all goes well, MTBVAC could be available for commercial use by 2029.
How much more funding is needed?
Approximately 22 million euros are still needed to fully fund the newborn trials.
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Health

Federal Reserve: Fed to make first interest rate cut since outbreak of corona pandemic

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

The US Federal Reserve is about to make its first interest rate cut in more than four years. Analysts expect the Fed to lower the key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points or even 0.5 percentage points. It is still in a range of 5.25 to 5.5 percent – the highest level in more than 20 years. Commercial banks can borrow central bank money at this rate. The central bank of the world’s largest economy will announce its decision today at 8 p.m. CEST.

News

US economy: Fed chief announces imminent interest rate cut

Inflation: Inflation in the US weakens ahead of possible interest rate turnaround

Key interest rate: ECB lowers interest rates in the euro area

Consumer prices are rising more slowly

The Federal Reserve last lowered the key interest rate in March 2020 – to stimulate the economy in the early stages of the corona pandemic. After that, interest rates initially remained at zero – until the Fed began raising rates at a record pace in March 2022 and raised the interest rate to its current level a year ago. In the USA, price increases have recently weakened. This gives the Federal Reserve more room for maneuver to cut interest rates. The European Central Bank had already initiated the interest rate turnaround in June.

Consumer prices in the US rose by 2.5 percent in August compared to the same month last year. This is the lowest inflation rate since February 2021. The US Federal Reserve is aiming for an inflation rate of 2 percent in the medium term. The labor market has also weakened recently. For the Fed, the fight against high consumer prices is a balancing act. If interest rates are too high, there is a risk of a recession. If interest rates are cut too early, the inflation rate could rise again. In the summer of 2022, it was more than 9 percent.

The effects of interest rate cuts

Market observers assume that a rate cut will be the starting signal for further monetary easing by the Fed. However, the Fed’s monetary policy will only take effect after a delay – the central bankers will probably continue to keep a close eye on the inflation rate. The Fed will also publish its new economic data today, which will also provide an outlook on interest rate developments.

A reduction in interest rates makes loans cheaper, which means that companies can invest more easily and many citizens have to spend less on debt – they therefore have more income available. This could stimulate the economy. High returns for savers, on the other hand, could be reduced. Interest rate cuts are good news for US investors. A significant interest rate cut is likely to weaken the dollar further – travelers to the USA from Germany should be happy about this.

Big or small step

Recently, pressure has been growing on the Fed and its chairman, Jerome Powell, to tighten interest rates. However, a reduction in the key interest rate by 0.5 percentage points would be an unusual decision – the Fed actually prefers small interest rate increases of 0.25 percentage points.

Opponents of a loose monetary policy, however, say that interest rate cuts are not necessary at the moment given the robust US economy. In addition, the core inflation rate excluding energy and food remains at 3.2 percent. The US Federal Reserve pays particular attention to the core rate. Experts believe that it reflects the general price trend better than the overall rate.

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Technology

Verviers: the future new face of the Ensival municipal school

by Ethan Caldwell
written by Ethan Caldwell

The future look of the Ensival municipal school. ©MADE

Then comes the reconstruction of the new school, the plans for which have been revealed. The building permit was granted to the City last July, thus validating the start of the 8.7 million euro project. The latter is partly financed by European subsidies as part of the post-flood recovery plan and by support from the Wallonia-Brussels Federation. The new Ensival school aims to become a model of school infrastructure. Adapted to climate issues, it will be designed to better withstand future floods thanks to harmonious integration with the nearby river. Students will benefit from a modern setting, a gymnasium financed by a subsidy from Infrasports, as well as state-of-the-art equipment.

Work could begin in 2025 after the contract is awarded by the end of 2024 (bids must be received by September 16 at the latest).

The first classes are expected to welcome students for the 2026-2027 school year. A new establishment that will contribute to the rebirth of the Ensival district, promising not only to meet educational needs, but also to help revitalize the disaster-stricken area.

Verviers: the future new face of the Ensival municipal schoolThe future look of the Ensival municipal school. ©MADE

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