Minnesota Department of Health Reports "Third Case of Travel-Related Measles" in Less Than Six Weeks

The Minnesota Department of Health said the state had seen its "third case of measles linked to a trip to the state in less than six weeks."

(REUTERS / LUCY NICHOLSON)

Minnesota travelers, be vigilant – health officials have a message for you: be on the lookout for measles symptoms.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MoH) announced Monday that health officials have just confirmed the "third case of measles linked to a trip to the state in less than six weeks."

To prevent contracting the disease, state health officials urge local people to get vaccinated immediately, especially before any scheduled trips.

According to the department, a 2-year-old child who returned from the Middle East had measles.

"The Ramsey County child, who was partially vaccinated against measles, mumps and rubella, was probably infectious between September 6 and 14," the organization said, adding that the people potentially exposed were informed.

However, health officials say that it is unlikely that the virus will continue to spread.

"The risk to the public is low," said MDH. "If other cases were to develop as a result of this case, they would probably occur by October 5th."

Although the director of infectious diseases of the department, Kris Ehresmann, warned that the virus was "just a plane in the air".

MEASURES REPORTED IN 21 STATES, D.C., FOR THIS YEAR, CDC DIT

"That's why it's so important for adults and children to be aware of the recommended vaccines before traveling," she added.

The Minnesota Department of Health has also made recommendations for children regarding the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

Health authorities recommend that children receive two doses of the vaccine.

"The first is 12-15 months old and the second is 4 to 6 years old. Children aged 6 to 12 months should receive an early dose of MMR vaccine when they travel to a country where measles is common, "says MDH.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explain how the disease can spread on its website.

"The measles virus can live for up to two hours in an airspace where the infected person coughs or sneezes," the agency says. "Measles is so contagious that if someone is infected, 90% of those close to that person who are not immunized will also be infected."

SIGNS OF MEASUREMENTS AND SYMPTOMS

The vaccine can also help you reduce your risk of contracting the virus.

"Two doses of MMR vaccine are 97% effective against measles and 88% against mumps," says the CDC. "A dose of MMR vaccine is 93% effective against measles, 78% against mumps and 97% against rubella".

However, the infection is still possible.

"About 3 out of 100 people who receive two doses of MMR vaccine will get measles if they are exposed to the virus," notes the agency. "However, they are more likely to have a lighter illness and are also less likely to pass the disease on to other people."

Fox Ear 'Jennifer Earl contributed to this report.