The last thing on your mind after a trip to Disneyland is the measles. Unfortunately, that was the reality for two Utah County residents who were exposed to the virus during a recent trip to the California amusement park.
Now back in Utah, the residents tested positive for measles, and Utah public health officials are taking the necessary precautions to control an outbreak. You too can take steps to protect yourself and your family from rare measles outbreaks like this, starting with knowing the facts about the virus.
What Is Measles?
Measles, also known as rubeola, is a viral illness spread through coughing and sneezing. It is highly contagious because the virus can live in the air or on surfaces for up to two hours. In fact, 90% of unvaccinated people who are in close contact with an infected person will also become infected.
First detected in the 9th century, measles used to be very common. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, prior to the vaccine “about 3 to 4 million people got the measles each year in the United States.”
The measles vaccination program introduced in 1963 changed all that though. The US declared measles eliminated from the country in 2000, meaning it was no longer native to the United States. Occasionally, measles is brought to the US from places where it still occurs, like Europe, Africa, and Asia, resulting in small outbreaks among unvaccinated people. Overall though, these cases are quite rare.
What Are the Symptoms and Treatments?
The typical incubation time, or amount of time between exposure to the virus and the appearance of symptoms, for measles is 10 days (sometimes between seven and 21 days). Symptoms usually seem flu-like at first: fever, runny nose, cough, headache, sore eyes, and swollen lymph nodes. After a few days, small white spots appear on the inside of the mouth. Then after another few days, a red rash appears over the whole body. Those infected with measles are contagious for four days before and four days after the rash appears.
Complications from measles also occur in about three out of 10 people, including ear and lung infections, diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and inflammation of the brain.
It is important to remember that measles may look like other medical conditions so always consult your care provider for a diagnosis. Though it is generally a mild illness in children, measles can be severe in adults and fatal for those with weak immune systems.
Treatment for measles is determined by a few things: your overall health and medical history, the severity of your condition, your tolerance for specific medications and therapies, and of course your opinion and preference. Your doctor will work with you to develop a plan of action.
How Should I Respond to the Measles Cases in Utah County?
Because measles is so contagious it is important to take precautions seriously, especially if you or your family members are not vaccinated. If you or your family member are not vaccinated and may be exposed to the virus, you can call 1-800-456-7707 or visit www.health.utah.gov/measles to learn more about what you should do.
Why Should I Be Vaccinated?
The most effective way you can prevent measles is through vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is usually given in two does to babies and children. First when they are 12 to 15 months old and then again when they are four to six years old. Infants younger than one year old who may be at risk for getting measles, for example before international travel, may receive one dose, but will still need two more does at a later date.
Once you are vaccinated, you are immune for life. This is why it is your most effective defense when cases of measles occur in your area. If you or your family members are not vaccinated, talk with your care provider about getting protected.
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