Second Measles Case Confirmed, Public Exposure Locations Identified

The Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) has confirmed a second case of measles in Grand Traverse County. The case is linked to the first confirmed case identified on June 18. There are now public exposure locations tied to the disease where individuals may have been exposed to measles, including: 

> Chelsea Park West Apartment Complex off Hartman Road in Traverse City on Wednesday, June 4 through Friday, June 13
> Walmart Super Center in Traverse City on Saturday, June 14 from 12:30pm to 3:30pm

Individuals who were at the above locations during the specified times should monitor for symptoms. Symptons often begin appearing 7-14 days after exposure but can appear up to 21 days after exposure. Anyone experiencing symptoms is urged to call their healthcare provider. Symptoms 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) may appear two to three days after symptoms begin
> A rash that is red, raised, blotchy; usually starts on the face, spreads to trunk, arms, and legs three to five days after symptoms begin

If seeking in-person medical attention, call ahead to inform your doctor, urgent care, or emergency room of the potential measles exposure before arrival so facilities may take precautions to prevent exposure to other individuals. In some cases, if it has been less than six days since the potential exposure, you may be able to receive post-exposure treatment that could prevent illness. Contact your healthcare provider, pharmacy, or local health department for vaccination and guidance. 

GTCHD is aware of close contacts with the two confirmed cases and is closely monitoring for additional confirmed cases that may be identified. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can remain infectious in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area. While most people with measles recover, serious complications can occur in some individuals. This is the first time since 2019 that measles has been confirmed in Grand Traverse County.

The GTCHD has a measles hotline that can be reached during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8am to 4:30pm at 231-995-6800. In addition, the line will be monitored from 10am to 2pm on Saturday, June 21 and from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, June 22. If outside of office hours, Grand Traverse County residents can also contact 2-1-1.