United States: Measles has become a major concern for health authorities in the United States. The worries of health experts and physicians have been elevated as the number of cases has been witnessing an unexpected upsurge. Recently, the total number of cases linked to measles crossed the mark of 100, alarming the situation.
Amid all, the Detroit Health Department has issued a warning after a 4-year-old child tested positive for the infection. The health department has highlighted that it has been investigating the case and asked the public to follow the precautionary measures to prevent the virus spread.
Recent case found in the US
According to the health authorities, the case was suspected on April 3 and was confirmed on April 9. After the child tested positive, the family was isolated; however, no other case linked to measles has been reported.
The Health Department has shared a list of locations that can possibly report the spread of measles infection.
- Acadian Urgent Care at 2117 Springwells Street on April 1 between 12 pm and 3 pm.
- Rite Health Pharmacy at 5851 West Vernor Highway on April 1 between 1:45 pm and 4 pm.
- Children’s Hospital of Michigan Emergency Room on Beaubien Boulevard on April 3, between 5 am and 10 am.
Individuals present at the aforementioned sites during the specified periods and encountering indications should promptly seek medical advice. In the event of exposure, one must diligently observe for symptoms for a duration of 21 days.
Should symptoms manifest, it is advisable to make prior arrangements before seeking medical attention at a physician’s office, urgent care facility, or emergency department to facilitate measures aimed at curtailing the transmission of the virus, as reported by clickondetriot.com.
The Detroit Health Department extends measles immunization services at its Vaccination Clinic situated at 100 Mack Avenue. Operational hours span from Monday to Friday, commencing at 8:30 am and concluding at 4:30 pm. Walk-ins are accommodated from 9 am to 3 pm. Comprehensive details are accessible via detroitmi.gov/health or by dialing 313-876-IMMS (4667).
Signs and symptoms of measles
Measles, being highly transmissible, can linger in the atmosphere for up to two hours post the departure of an infected individual. The Detroit Health Department aims to apprise the public regarding three sites where the child received medical attention, potentially leading to virus exposure.
Typically, initial symptoms of measles materialize within a timeframe of seven to 14 days following exposure, though an incubation period of up to 21 days is plausible.
Symptoms encompass:
Elevated fever (potentially surging beyond 104˚F).
Respiratory cough.
Excessive nasal discharge.
Inflamed, teary eyes (conjunctivitis).
Within two to three days subsequent to symptom onset, Koplik spots may emerge intraorally. These minute whitish spots manifest on the inner buccal mucosa, gingiva, and palatal region.
Between three to five days following symptom onset, the measles rash may emerge, characterized by a red, raised, and mottled appearance. Its onset typically commences on the facial region before disseminating to other bodily regions, according to clickondetriot.com.
In the event of presumptive measles contraction, it is imperative to notify one’s healthcare provider or the emergency facility to facilitate preparatory measures and mitigate viral dissemination.
Efficacy of the measles vaccine
Health authorities affirm the safety and efficacy of the vaccine.
Per the CDC, administration of two doses of the measles vaccine boasts approximately 97% effectiveness in preventing measles post-exposure. A solitary dose is estimated to confer about 93% protection. Full immunization efficacy is achieved approximately two to three weeks post-vaccination.
For unvaccinated individuals exposed to the virus, prompt administration of the measles vaccine within 72 hours post-exposure can attenuate the risk of measles acquisition.
Certain individuals with compromised immune systems may be ineligible for vaccination, clickondetriot.com reported.
“Vaccination stands as the paramount defense against potential disease outbreaks such as measles,” remarked Dr Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive.
“Ensuring compliance with routine vaccination schedules among our families is pivotal in averting the spread of severe illnesses. Presently presents an opportune moment to liaise with healthcare providers to ascertain vaccination status,” the health expert added.
Verification of vaccination status in Michigan
Michigan residents who have received vaccinations can peruse the immunization portal to verify the availability of their records.