Health officials advise about potential measles exposure

Oakland County Health Division received confirmation from Michigan Department of Health and Human Services about two measles cases in Oakland County residents. The cases arrived on a flight at Detroit Metro Airport on Oct. 23 at approximately 5 p.m. Oakland County officials advise individuals who were possibly exposed to watch for symptoms for 21 days after the exposure. If symptoms develop, it is crucial to call ahead to the healthcare provider you plan to visit so they can take proper precautions to prevent exposure to other individuals.

“Measles is a highly contagious respiratory infection.” said Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for Oakland County. “Immunizations are the best way to protect our families and communities from vaccine preventable diseases like measles.”

Measles is a vaccine-preventable disease that is spread by direct person-to-person contact, and through the air by a contagious person sneezing or coughing. The virus can live for up to two hours in the air where the infected person coughed or sneezed. Symptoms of measles usually begin 7-14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure and may include:

• High fever (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) 2-3 days after symptoms begin
• A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on face, spreads to trunk, arms, and legs 3-5 days after symptoms begin

“If you have questions about your child’s vaccination status or your own vaccination history, talk to your doctor right way to ensure your family has optimal protection,” said Dr. Russell Faust, Oakland County medical director.

The MMR vaccine is available through some health providers, Oakland County Health Division offices in Southfield and Pontiac, and many pharmacies.
Health Division offices are located at the following addresses:

• North Oakland Health Center, 1200 N. Telegraph Road, Building 34 East, Pontiac
• South Oakland Health Center, 27725 Greenfield Road, Southfield

The MMR vaccine is a two-dose series and costs $71 per dose. There is a $7 fee per vaccination, per client. The Health Division accepts health insurance, as well as Medicaid, Medicare, Vaccines for Children (VFC) program, cash, and credit. VFC offers vaccines at no cost for eligible children. There are additional fees for credit card payments. No one will be denied access due to inability to pay. There is a discounted/sliding fee schedule available.

For additional information about measles, visit www.oakgov.com/health or call Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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