First Measles Case Of 2017 Confirmed In Southeast Michigan

State public health officials have confirmed the first case of measles of the year. A southeast Michigan resident was exposed to the highly communicable respiratory disease during international travel and is currently recovering in a hospital, according to a news release.

Dr. Eden Wells, chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, said the case underscores the importance of following vaccination recommendations. The age of the individual diagnosed with measles was not disclosed.

“Immunizations are the best way to protect our families and communities from the harmful, sometimes deadly consequences of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles,” Wells said. “If you have questions about a child’s vaccination status or your own vaccination history, talk to your doctor right away to ensure your family has optimal protection.”

Measles is a vaccine-preventable respiratory infection that can result in hospitalization, pneumonia, encephalitis and death. Symptoms initially include a high fever, red eyes, cough, runny nose, and eye discomfort or sensitivity in the yes, and is followed by a red, raised body rash starting on the head and face that progresses to the rest of the body.

Individuals may be contagious for a few days before they present with symptoms, which increases the potential of exposing others to the infection.

Because measles is highly communicable, vaccination is the best line of defense, and successful prevention and control requires high levels of immunity in all communities, Wells said.

The state health department is coordinating with local health departments in southeast Michigan to monitor any potential secondary cases in individuals who may have been exposed to the initial case. Individuals known to have been potentially exposed while the patient was receiving treatment are being contacted for follow up.

Last year, Michigan confirmed one case of measles. From 2001 – 2012, the average number of measles cases reported nationally per year was about 60. But in recent years there have been more, a cause of concern among public health authorities. In 2014, there were 667 cases nationwide, including five cases in Michigan.

The majority of people who got measles were not vaccinated, Wells said.

“The measles vaccine is highly effective and very safe,” she said. “Adults who do not have evidence of immunity against measles should get at least one dose of the vaccine.”

Measles is part of the vaccination regimen recommended for children. The first of two doses is given at 12 months, but children who are traveling internationally should receive their first measles vaccine as young as 6 months, according to the release.

The vaccination, or documentation of immunity to measles, is recommended for all persons traveling internationally, Wells said.

The state health department recently joined the Fanny Strong Foundation to launch the public awareness “I Vaccinate” campaign as part of an effort to educate parents about serious vaccine-preventable diseases.

Photo via U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention