Measles cases are on the upswing

GREEN BAY, WI – (WISS & WGBW) – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 113 measles cases have been reported in 17 states. With cases showing up in neighboring states, Wisconsin may not be far behind.

As of April 5, there have been measles cases reported across Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and Washington.

Measles in Wisconsin

While there have been no reported cases of measles in Wisconsin, health departments are ready if there are.

“This is something we plan for,” said Jaci Grignon, Winnebago County Health Department Communicable Disease Supervisor. “Measles is highly contagious.”

Doug Gieryn, Director and Health Officer of Winnebago County Health Department says the possibility of the transmission of measles is higher than it has been in some time. He says that international travel, an increase in foreign cases of measles, and a reduction in the number of vaccinations in the US all contribute to the spike in cases in the U.S.

“While it is very difficult to predict whether we’ll have a case of measles,” said Gieryn, “We certainly know that the conditions are such that it wouldn’t be a big surprise.” 

To be prepared and primed, Gieryn says communication with school districts, health care providers, and others informed and are aware that the potential exists.

“Measles is one of those diseases that is extremely contagious. And a quick response or a quick reaction to that is really critical to limiting spread,” said Gieryn. 

What is measles and how is it spread?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that typically spreads from person to person through coughing and sneezing. The virus can live in the air for two hours. People can contract measles by breathing in the virus, or by touching their eyes, nose, or mouth after coming into contact with an infected surface. 

“It is highly contagious,” said Grignon. “It’s airborne. Someone could pass by, and it can hang in the air for two hours. So, you can get it even after that person has left the area.” 

Dr. Katrina Nordyke, Deputy Health Officer for Brown County Health and Human Services,  also commented on the highly contagious nature of measles. “It’s one of the most contagious vaccine-preventable diseases. So if there is a group of 10 people who aren’t vaccinated exposed, about 9 of them can become ill. I guess my point would be that it’s extremely, extremely contagious.”

Nordyke said symptoms of measles include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, white spots inside the mouth, and a rash around the face and down the trunk. The CDC says symptoms of the measles begin to show seven to 14 days after exposure.

According to Grignon, measles can result in serious illnesses that can result in hospitalization. “It is quite serious. You can get ear infections and diarrhea. Those are the common complications that people will get,” said Grignon. “But there are people who are hospitalized.” 

Nordyke said if someone does see the symptoms she recommends isolation and contacting their provider. Gieryn says that one in five children who get measles are hospitalized.  

How to avoid the Measles

Nordyke, says there are a few things you can do to protect yourself and your family from measles if there is an outbreak or cases reported in your area.

“Use basic hygiene in terms of handwashing and surface cleaning,” said Nordyke. “You can choose to wear a mask. Call your provider for any specific recommendations on personal steps you can take. And, then vaccination, of course, is our number one recommendation.”  

Due to the increase in the number of cases, the CDC issued a health advisory reminding people to get vaccinated and warning of the rise in cases in the U.S. and around the globe. Dr. Nordyke said children are usually vaccinated against measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) between the ages of 12 and 15 months. But she recommends everyone check their immunization status.

“The MMR vaccination is very, very effective,” said Nordyke. “So, first, check to see if you’re fully immunized. If you’re not, call your provider to seek advice and guidance for next steps there.” 

According to the CDC, foreign travel has been linked to many of the reported cases. Grignon says any travel can be the opportunity to be exposed to measles. 

“Any travel. I mean you are going to airports with people from all over. Airports are areas where you have people traveling from and to other countries. But then you even think about in the United States. If you are traveling to an area within the U.S. who are currently having an outbreak, also. Another concern,” she said. 

The CDC, Gieryn, Grignon, and Nordyke say vaccines are the best way to avoid the measles.   

In 2000 the CDC declared measles eradicated in the U.S. However, in 2019 there were 1,274 cases reported in 31 states. That was the highest count of measles cases in the U.S. since 1992. Last year there were 58 reported measles cases throughout the United States.