Should West Michigan Be Worried About Measles?

A measles outbreak is spreading across the United States with seventeen states, including Michigan, reporting cases. Should the people of West Michigan be worried?

Measles outbreaks have been happening in recent years, even though the disease was, at one point, mostly irradiated in the United States. Most of us received measles and mumps vaccinations when we were kids. But, in recent years parents have been pushing back against vaccines, and the infection has become popping up more and more.

How Concerned Should West Michigan Residents Be About Measles?

So far in 2024, four cases of measles have been reported in Michigan. As of the time of the writing of this article, those cases have been isolated to southeast Michigan - two cases in Wayne County and two cases in Washtenaw County.

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So far, there have been no cases reported in West Michigan. But, CBS News reports that two of the cases reported in Michigan so far have been associated with international travel.

With most of Michigan already on or nearing Spring Break - some families will be traveling internationally which could increase their chances of exposure.

What is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious virus that is spread through the air when someone coughs.

What Are The Symptoms of Measles?

The World Health Organization says that early symptoms of measles include a runny nose, cough, red/watery eyes, and small white spots inside of your mouth.

Anywhere from a week to eighteen days after exposure, more symptoms will present including a rash that generally begins on the face and spreads over the entire body.

Experts say that the best way to protect yourself from measles is to make sure that you are vaccinated.

Learn more about what you can do to keep yourself and your family safe here.