Health officials have confirmed the fifth measles case in Michigan for the year 2023. A one-year-old girl from Ingham County has tested positive for the highly contagious virus, raising concerns about potential exposure to others at various locations during a four-day period. The Ingham County Health Department is actively working to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), measles is an extremely contagious disease that spreads through person-to-person contact and the air. The infected child may have exposed individuals at seven different locations between April 4 and April 8. Dr. Nike Shoyinka, Ingham County Medical Health Officer, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We are closely monitoring this case.”
The potential exposure sites include:
Tractor Supply, W Grand River Ave, Lansing, on April 4 between 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Okemos Farmer’s Market in Meridian Mall, on April 5 between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Aldi in Okemos, on April 5 between 2:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Towar Hart Baptist Church in East Lansing on April 6 between 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Toscana Restaurant in Lansing on April 6 between 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Michigan State University Community Music School on April 8 between 5:30 p.m. and 7:35 p.m. University of Michigan Health Sparrow Lansing Emergency Department on April 8 between 6 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.Individuals who may have been exposed to measles are advised to monitor themselves for symptoms for a duration of 21 days. Common symptoms include:
High fever Cough Runny nose Red and watery eyes Tiny white spots inside the mouth Red rash that typically starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the bodyIf any of these symptoms develop, it is crucial to contact a healthcare provider immediately. The CDC notes that measles can be contracted simply by being in a room where an infected person has been up to two hours after they left the area.
The most effective way to prevent measles is through vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is highly recommended and is approximately 97% effective in preventing measles infection after two doses. Children can receive their first dose of the MMR vaccine between the ages of 12 and 15 months, with a second dose administered between the ages of four and six years.
According to the CDC, individuals who are not vaccinated are at a higher risk for serious health complications from measles, particularly children under the age of five. The Ingham County Health Department is urging all residents to check their vaccination status and is providing doses at its immunization clinic in Lansing. Dr. Shoyinka stressed, “The MMR vaccine is safe, effective, and remains our best defense.”
The one-year-old child had a recent history of travel outside of Michigan, which has prompted the Ingham County Health Department to investigate the specific locations and times of her exposure. This case marks the fifth confirmed measles case in Michigan this year, following the fourth case identified in Montcalm County just last week.
In conclusion, it is vital for residents to stay informed about measles exposure and vaccination options. The Ingham County Health Department encourages everyone to contact their healthcare provider if they experience any symptoms or have concerns regarding their vaccination status.
