A visitor to Taney County in Missouri’s Branson area was diagnosed with measles, the first case detected in the state this year, according to the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS). The diagnosis came soon after arrival, linked to recent international travel.
Exposure appears limited, with known contacts notified, but vaccination status remains unknown. Symptoms of measles typically begin with fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, followed by a rash that spreads across the body.
Measles is highly contagious and can cause severe health complications, including pneumonia, brain inflammation, and death. The virus can remain infectious for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. Young children under five are at highest risk of complications, but the disease affects all who come into contact with it.
DHSS recommends isolating individuals who think they may have measles or been exposed, calling their healthcare provider before testing. Vaccination is key, with two doses of a measles-containing vaccine offering over 97% protection against infection. Adults can receive “catch-up” vaccination if needed, while children receive one dose at 12-15 months and another at 4-6 years.
Measles outbreaks have been reported in the US, including an expanding outbreak announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on March 7. Experts stress the importance of vaccination as a safe and effective measure to prevent measles infections.
Source: https://www.komu.com/news/state/measles-case-reported-in-branson-area-health-officials-believe-exposure-was-limited/article_7f786375-4096-4aa3-ada2-e1e454a00276.html