The public health departments in Washtenaw and Wayne Counties, Michigan, have recently confirmed new cases of measles. These announcements come in the wake of a growing concern about the spread of this highly contagious disease.
In the first week of March 2024, Michigan health authorities reported three confirmed cases of measles. Two of these cases were detected in Washtenaw and Wayne Counties, respectively. Both cases involved adults who had recently traveled internationally. The health departments in the respective counties, in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), are currently working to identify and inform individuals who may have been exposed to the disease.
Measles is a highly infectious, vaccine-preventable disease. It is spread through direct person-to-person contact and through the air, lingering in the environment for up to two hours after an infected person has left the area.
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The initial symptoms of measles generally appear seven to 14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days to manifest. The common symptoms include:
- A high fever, which may spike to over 104˚F
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots) appearing two to three days after symptoms begin
- A rash that is red, raised, and blotchy, usually starting on the face and spreading to the trunk, arms, and legs three to five days after symptoms begin
The Wayne County Public Health (WCPH) department has identified the following locations where exposure to the disease may have occurred:
- WCPH WellStreet/Beaumont Urgent Care
- CVS Pharmacy
- Henry Ford GoHealth Urgent Care
- Corewell Emergency Health Department
In Washtenaw County, the potential exposure location identified by the health department is the waiting and triage areas at Trinity Health Ann Arbor Emergency Department.
Local health departments are urging anyone who may have been exposed and is not considered immune to measles to get vaccinated with the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Individuals who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine, adults born before 1957, and those who have had a documented case of measles in the past are generally considered immune to the disease.
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Individuals potentially exposed to measles should monitor themselves for symptoms for 21 days following the date of potential exposure. If symptoms do develop, it is crucial to call ahead before visiting a healthcare provider, urgent care center, or emergency room to prevent further spread of the disease.
Health officials have emphasized the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles. The MMR vaccine is the best protection against measles. If you’re unsure about your vaccination status, consult your healthcare provider.
The recent measles cases in Michigan are part of a larger, ongoing issue. Over 40 measles cases have been reported in 15 other states so far in 2024. This underscores the importance of maintaining high vaccination rates to prevent the spread of this potentially serious disease.
