The Holmes County General Health District was notified Aug. 4 of a laboratory-confirmed case of measles in a Holmes County resident
The health district is working to identify potential exposure sites and promote vaccination opportunities. Public health officials will notify identified contacts and provide guidance
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. People who have been vaccinated against measles are protected from the virus
The measles virus typically grows in the back of the throat and in cells lining the lungs. It can remain in the air for up to two hours. Symptoms usually appear seven to 14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days to develop
Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and a rash
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed should verify their immunity by checking vaccination records or determining whether they previously had measles. In some cases, vaccination or preventive medication may be effective if administered shortly after exposure
People should monitor for symptoms for 21 days following a potential exposure
Anyone who develops a fever, unexplained rash or other symptoms consistent with measles should contact a health care provider immediately. Before visiting a health care facility, patients should call ahead so appropriate precautions can be taken to prevent exposing others
The measles, mumps and rubella vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles. The Holmes County General Health District offers the MMR vaccine to adults and children
For information about the health district’s vaccination clinics, call 330-674-5035 or visit www.holmeshealth.org
