State health department confirms 15 cases of measles statewide | State

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed 15 cases of measles in Michigan for 2018, so far.

It is the highest level seen in the state since 1994 when 26 cases were reported.

Measles is a vaccine-preventable respiratory infection that can result in hospitalization, pneumonia, encephalitis and death. The illness has a 10 to 21 day incubation period and initially presents a high fever, red eyes, cough, runny nose, photophobia and is followed by a red, raised body rash that starts on the head and face and progresses to the rest of the body. Individuals may be contagious for a few days before symptoms show, which increases the potential of exposing others to the infection.

“The increases in measles cases being reported drives home the importance of being up-to-date on vaccines,” said Dr. Eden Wells, MDHHS Chief Medical Executive, in a news release. “Immunizations are the best way to protect our families and communities from the harmful, sometimes deadly consequences of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles.”

MDHHS recommends vaccination as the best protection against the disease. Successful prevention and control of measles requires high levels of immunity in all communities, sometimes referred to as “herd immunity.”

As of Oct. 6, 142 measles cases have been confirmed in the United States with many cases connected to international travel.

MDHHS confirmed two cases of measles in Oakland County in November. Officials said both cases arrived on a flight at Detroit Metro Airport in Oct. 23.

Adults who do not have evidence of immunity against measles should get at least one dose of the vaccine. The first of two routine childhood measles vaccine doses is given at 12 months of age. A second vaccine dose is given before the start of kindergarten.

For international travel, infants as young as six months of age should be vaccinated against measles. The measles vaccine or other acceptable documentation of immunity to measles is recommended for all people traveling internationally.

MDHHS participates in the I Vaccinate campaign, which provides the facts parents need to make informed decisions about vaccinations. For more information about immunizations and the I Vaccinate campaign, visit IVaccinate.org.