Be aware but not afraid: that’s the message from healthcare leaders in Kent County as counterparts in Wayne and Washtenaw trace potentially hundreds of people exposed to measles after two adults and a child sought care.
“Measles is a very contagious virus. About 90% of people who are exposed to someone who has measles, if they are not immune, they will be infected. It is one of the most infectious viruses we know of.”
Dr. Nirali Bora is the Medical Director for the Kent County Health Department. Whenever there’s an increase of infectious disease, she sees cause for concern because people travel widely. Although measles is extremely contagious, most of the population is protected through the childhood vaccine series.
“That’s the good thing. We have a very effective vaccine for measles. The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella. Two doses is 97% effective at preventing measles so if people are fully vaccinated there is a very low likelihood they would become infected even if they are exposed to someone who has measles.”
She believes the most important thing people can do is know their vaccine status, and make sure they are fully vaccinated with two doses.
“We have communicated with schools and with healthcare so people are on high alert and paying attention to what is happening.”
People who need to seek treatment are asked to call ahead so preparations can be made to reduce exposure.
