|
(OTTAWA COUNTY, MI.) — The Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH), in partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), has confirmed a case of measles in an Ottawa County resident. OCDPH is working to notify any individuals who may have been exposed. There are no public exposure sites to announce at this time; if public exposure sites are identified, it will be announced on miottawa.org/measles. This is the county’s first case of measles since 1991.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease. A single infectious person can spread measles to approximately 9 out of 10 people nearby who are not immune. A person is considered immune to measles if they can provide documentation that:
- They are a child (K-12) or adult who has received two doses of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine.
- They are a preschool aged child who has received one dose of the MMR vaccine.
- They have had measles at some point in their life.
- They were born before 1957.
Anyone with questions about their vaccination status should contact their healthcare provider or OCDPH at 616 396-5266.
Measles Symptoms to Watch For
Measles symptoms appear 7–21 days after exposure. Watch for:
- High fever (may spike above 104°F)
- Cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes
- Red blotchy rash beginning on the face and spreading downward, typically 3–5 days after first symptoms
If symptoms develop, call ahead before going to a clinic, urgent care, or emergency room — this allows staff to take precautions and protects other patients from being exposed. Stay away from others until you have spoken with a health care provider.
"Measles is highly contagious, but it's also highly preventable — two doses of the MMR vaccine provide about 97% protection and help safeguard the neighbors, classmates, and family members around us. Most people in Ottawa County are already protected, and if you're unsure whether you or your children are up to date, now is a good time to check your records and talk with your healthcare provider,” noted Gwen Unzicker, MD, Medical Director.
The Ottawa County Department of Public Health works with our community to help assure conditions that promote and protect health for all. OCDPH’s vision is healthy people. Follow OCDPH on Facebook @miOttawaHealth or Instagram @miOCDPH. Report a health concern at miottawa.org/concern.
# # #
|
