Michigan residents encouraged to get measles vaccine after outbreak

Daylyn Huff
·1 min read
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LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — The Branch Hillsdale St. Joseph Community Health Agency is urging people in Oakland County, Mich., Lake County, Ind., and Montgomery County, Ohio who are unsure or not vaccinated for measles, to receive the measles vaccine.

Officials confirmed earlier this month that an Oakland County child was diagnosed with measles and a history of international travel.

“Measles is one of the most highly infectious diseases,” Heidi Hazel, Director of Personal Health and Disease Prevention said. “Anyone who has not had the disease, or who has not been fully immunized is susceptible. Measles is a vaccine-preventable respiratory infection that can have very serious complications, including secondary infections resulting in hospitalization, pneumonia, encephalitis, blindness, and even death.”

Michigan health officials confirm measles case

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said 90% of unvaccinated persons exposed to the virus will contract measles. MDHHS officials say one in five people who get sick with the virus will require hospitalization.

Symptoms of measles usually begin 7-14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure and may include:

  • High fever (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 (Koplik Spots) two to three days after symptoms begin.

  • A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin.

If symptoms develop, residents are urged to not visit their doctor or emergency room unless they have called ahead so facilities can take precautions to prevent exposure to other individuals.

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