The first case of measles since 2019 has been confirmed in Grand Traverse County.

According to the Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD), a county resident had close exposure to an out-of-state traveler who was confirmed to be positive for measles. At this time, there is only a single confirmed case of the disease locally. There are no known public exposures related to that case. Those who may have been directly or indirectly exposed to the infected individual have been contacted by the health department. 
 
"Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that is spread by direct person-to-person contact and can live for up to two hours in the air after an infected person has left the area," according to GTCHD. "Measles presents a significant public health concern when identified in our community.  Nearly 90 percent of unvaccinated individuals who are exposed to measles will become infected. Infected individuals are contagious four days before the onset of rash and can continue to spread the virus up to four days after a very recognizable rash appears."

Symptoms of measles usually begin 7-14 days after exposure, but can appear up to 21 days after exposure and may 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) 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
 
Anyone who is concerned they may have symptoms of measles should contact their doctor, urgent care, or hospital before seeking treatment to ensure steps can be taken to prevent additional exposure to other individuals.  
 
“This case is a reminder of how easily measles can spread and the importance of vaccination,” says Mike Lahey, MPH, Health Officer at GTCHD. “The vaccine is highly effective, and we strongly encourage our community to educate themselves about their immunization status and to get vaccinated if they are not protected.” 
 
GTCHD is hosting a walk-in clinic for measles vaccination Friday (June 20) from 8:30am-11:30am and 1pm-4pm at the health department located at 2600 LaFranier Road in Traverse City.