(Marshall, Texas) Marshall - Harrison County Health District (MHCHD) is announcing a confirmed case of measles in a child younger than five years old. The child had one dose of the MMR vaccine. A public location where the child was during their infectious period is included below. MHCHD is gathering information to determine if the case is related to the outbreak in West Texas.
“Now that Measles has made its way into our county, we must remain diligent in preventing its spread. The best protection against Measles is to receive the Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine,” states Dr. Ricky Paul, Harrison County Health Authority and MHCHD Medical Director.
EXPOSURE LOCATION
- Sunday, April 27, 10 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church
ABOUT MEASLES
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing, sneezing or simply being near someone infected. The virus can linger in the air for up to two hours after an infected person has left an area, making it easy to contract in shared spaces.
SYMPTOMS
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- Rash, typically starting on the face and spreading downward 2–5 days after initial symptoms
INFECTIOUS PERIOD
People with measles can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears to four days after.
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS AND HIGH-RISK GROUPS
While measles can infect anyone, complications can be severe and include ear infections, diarrhea, pneumonia, or, in rare cases, brain inflammation (encephalitis). Those at the highest risk include:
- Infants and children under 5 years old
- Pregnant women
- People with weakened immune systems
PREVENTION
Vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles.
- Two doses of the MMR vaccine provide a 97% protection rate and long-lasting immunity.
- The MMR vaccine can be administered by your health care provider or at a pharmacy (if over the age of 14)
- The Texas Department of State Health Services recommends:
The first dose at 12–15 months of age
The second dose at 4–6 years of age
WHAT TO DO IF EXPOSED OR SYMPTOMATIC
If you believe you have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms:
- Isolate yourself immediately to prevent spreading the virus to others.
- Contact your healthcare provider by phone before going to their office to arrange testing in a way that minimizes exposure to others.
- Watch for symptoms, which typically develop 7–21 days after exposure.
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