A confirmed measles case in Howard County has prompted health officials to urge residents to ensure vaccinations are up to date. The patient recently traveled internationally and visited Washington Dulles International Airport on March 5 (4–9 p.m.) and Johns Hopkins Howard County Medical Center’s Pediatric Emergency Department on March 7 (3:30–7:30 p.m.).
Infants under age one, unvaccinated individuals, pregnant people, and those with weakened immune systems are most at risk. Symptoms include a rash starting on the head, high fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, appearing up to 14 days after exposure. Measles can cause severe complications like pneumonia or deadly brain infections.
Dr. Theresa Nguyen of Greater Baltimore Medical Center emphasized that 95% of unvaccinated people exposed to measles will contract it. While over 96% of Maryland students are fully vaccinated, officials worry about under-vaccinated communities. Vaccines are recommended for infants traveling abroad at 6 months but require a follow-up dose after turning one.
Health experts stress that vaccinations remain the best defense against outbreaks.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/baltimore/news/maryland-measles-howard-vaccinations-symptoms-rash