Health Officials Confirm Kent County's Second Measles Case
GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (July 2, 2025) —The Kent County Health Department (KCHD), in partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), has confirmed a case of measles in a young child whose family has a recent history of international travel. This marks the County's second confirmed measles case since Aprill, and Michigan’s 17th confirmed case of the year.
“We’re seeing a troubling resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, both here and around the world,” said Dr. Adam London, Health Officer at the KCHD. “This latest case is a reminder that traveling to or from areas with ongoing outbreaks can put vulnerable people at risk. Vaccination remains our best defense.”
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads easily through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes. It can stay in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves, continuing to infect others. At this time, only one public exposure site has been identified, though more may become available as the investigation continues:
- Helen DeVos Children's Hospital's Emergency Room— located at 100 Michigan St. NE in Grand Rapids—between 11:38 p.m. Friday, June 27 and 12:06 a.m. Saturday, June 28
Individuals who were at the hospital during the exposure window should monitor for symptoms through Saturday, July 19. Symptoms typically begin 7–14 days after exposure, though they can surface as late as 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 mouth (Koplik Spots) 2-3 days after symptoms begin
- A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms and legs 3-5 days after symptoms begin
Anyone who becomes ill is urged to call their healthcare provider before visiting a clinic or office to avoid exposing others. The KCHD can be reached Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 616-632-7228. Individuals can call 2-1-1 for support during weekends and evenings.
“Measles can cause severe illness, especially in young children, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems,” said Dr. Kristin Oldenberg, Medical Director at KCHD. “The MMR vaccine is both safe and highly effective. If you’re unsure of your vaccination status, now is the time to check and protect yourself and your family.”
For more information on measles, please visit the KCHD website—where clinic hours and locations are also listed. To schedule a media interview, available between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, please email the KCHD communications manager.
###
|
