The Oakland County Health Department has confirmed a case of measles in an adult who recently returned from international travel. The patient’s vaccination status is unknown.
The infected person returned home on February 27 and first experienced symptoms on March 3, with the rash emerging on March 7. This means the period of possible transmission is from March 3 to March 11.
Two locations have been identified as potential exposure sites: the Emergency Room at Henry Ford Rochester University Drive from March 8 to 9, and Kruse and Muer restaurant on Main in Rochester from March 3.
The measles virus remains active in the air for two hours after an infected person leaves. Early symptoms include fever, runny nose, and pink eye. Individuals experiencing these symptoms should call their provider before seeking treatment.
Henry Ford Health has issued a statement urging patients, team members, and community members to be vaccinated against measles. Vaccinations are the best protection against infectious diseases like measles.
According to Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, an infectious disease expert for Michigan, large outbreaks are becoming more common in other parts of the country. Children are at highest risk for infection and serious complications.
The health department is urging everyone to be mindful of the seriousness of measles. Dr. Bagdasarian advises getting vaccinated if possible, especially for those unsure of their vaccination status or who did not receive a childhood vaccine.
Source: https://www.wxyz.com/news/region/oakland-county/oakland-county-health-department-confirms-measles-case-sets-4pm-news-conference