Virginia confirms child infected with first measles case in the state
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) recently reported the state’s first measles case of the year, involving a child under 4 years old who had recently traveled internationally. The child resides in the northwest region of the state. Health officials are now working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus.
Measles outbreaks have been declared in eight states across the country, with Michigan being the most recent addition. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and Oakland County Health Division confirmed the first case of measles in Oakland County on March 14, marking the eighth case detected in the state this year.
VDH epidemiologist Laurie Forlano emphasized the importance of the MMR vaccination as the best defense against measles. The vaccine is safe and highly effective in protecting individuals and preventing outbreaks. It is recommended that individuals check their vaccination status, consult with their healthcare provider, and receive the MMR vaccine if necessary. Two doses of the vaccine provide lifetime protection.
Individuals who were present at specific locations during certain times may have been exposed to the virus and are advised to seek medical attention. Those who have received the MMR vaccine or were born before 1957 are considered protected and do not need to take any further action.
While about 95% of kindergartners in Virginia are fully vaccinated, infants who are too young to be vaccinated and individuals who have not been vaccinated are at risk of contracting measles. Infants aged 6 to 11 months who will be traveling internationally or to areas with reported outbreaks should receive one dose of the MMR vaccine before traveling.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. Symptoms typically appear in two stages, with the first stage including fever, runny nose, watery eyes, and a cough. The second stage presents with a rash that spreads from the face to the body. Infected individuals are contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after.
It is crucial for individuals to stay informed about the latest developments regarding measles outbreaks and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others. By following vaccination guidelines and seeking medical attention when needed, we can work together to prevent the spread of this highly contagious virus.
