MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. – The Macomb County Health Department has confirmed a case of measles in a Macomb County adult.
The health department said the adult recently traveled to Ontario, Canada, which is experiencing a measles outbreak. They were not out in public during their infectious period, so there are no known public exposure locations.
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“Measles is a highly contagious disease and spreads through the air when a person coughs, sneezes or talks,” said Andrew Cox, director/health officer of Macomb County Health and Community Services. “If you are not vaccinated for measles, get vaccinated as quickly as you can. It is important to make sure you protect yourself and loved ones from this vaccine-preventable disease.”
The health department is working with the MDHHS and the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit in Ontario, Canada to investigate the case.
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Signs and symptoms of measles
The first symptoms of measles usually show up seven to 14 days after exposure, but they can take as long as 21 days to appear.
Symptoms include:
- High fever (may spike to over 104˚F).
- Cough.
- Runny nose.
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis).
Two to three days after the initial symptoms begin, Koplik spots may appear inside the mouth. These are tiny white spots that show up on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth.
Three to five days after symptoms begin, the measles rash may appear. This is a rash that is red, raised, and blotchy. It usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body.
If you believe you have measles, you should call your doctor or emergency room so they can prepare and avoid exposing others to the virus.
How effective is the measles vaccine?
Health officials said the vaccine is very safe and highly effective.
According to the CDC, two doses of the measles vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles if you’re exposed to the virus. One dose of the vaccine is believed to be about 93% effective. You are considered fully protected about two to three weeks after getting the vaccine.
If you are unvaccinated and exposed to the virus, health officials say getting the measles vaccine within 72 hours of exposure can help reduce your risk of developing measles.
Some people with weakened immune systems may not be able to get the vaccine.
How to check your vaccination status in Michigan
People who have been vaccinated in Michigan can check the immunization portal to see if their records are available.
To get your record, you must be 18 years of age or older and have or create a MiLogin account. You will have to upload an image of either your US passport, driver’s license, or state ID.
