The Erie County Department of Health has reported two confirmed cases of measles linked to international travel. The department made this announcement on Monday morning, emphasizing that there is currently no evidence of community spread or other exposures related to these cases.
In response to the confirmed measles cases, the Erie County DOH is collaborating with the Pennsylvania Department of Health to investigate any potential exposures. Individuals who may have been at risk will be promptly notified by health officials to ensure public safety and awareness.
Health authorities are urging anyone who is not up to date with their MMR vaccine (measles, mumps, and rubella) to get vaccinated. The MMR vaccine is crucial because individuals who are fully vaccinated have a 97% lower chance of contracting measles. Given the highly infectious nature of this disease, vaccination is a key preventive measure.
Measles is known for its extreme contagiousness. The virus can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Alarmingly, if individuals are not protected, up to 90% of those exposed to the virus will become ill. The measles virus can survive for up to two hours in the air, posing a significant risk to unvaccinated individuals who may breathe contaminated air or touch infected surfaces before touching their face.
Symptoms of measles typically include a rash, high fever, runny nose, cough, loss of appetite, and red, watery eyes. The characteristic rash usually develops between 7 to 14 days after exposure, starting at the hairline, spreading to the face and upper neck, and eventually moving down the body. Common complications of measles include diarrhea and ear infections, with more severe complications potentially arising in some cases.
This is an ongoing story, and more information will be provided as it becomes available. It’s essential for the community to remain vigilant and informed about measles and the importance of vaccination to prevent outbreaks.
