Doctors urge to vaccinate for measles following first confirmed case in Kent County

KENT COUNTY, Mich. — Health professionals are urging people to stay up to date with their measles vaccinations, following the first confirmed case of measles in Kent County.

This is the first measles case to be confirmed in that area since 2013, and marks the second confirmed case in the state of Michigan this year.

Health professionals said this specific case is a reminder of just how quickly measles can spread, anticipating that this is just the beginning of the outbreak.

“Measles is one of those illnesses that really concerns us as emergency physicians because it’s incredibly contagious,” Todd Chassee, medical director of the Right Care Clinic, said.

The infected adult recently returned home to the United States after traveling abroad, making stops between Michigan and New Jersey.

“Unfortunately, with the outbreak that we saw in Texas, I think with travel, it’s only a matter of time before we saw the potential spread,” Chassee said.

Chassee sat down with News Channel 3, answering a list of questions following the first West Michigan case.

Q: How is measles spread?

The disease lingers in the air and on surfaces for a significant period of time after an infected person passes through an area, according to Chassee. The infection can be spread through breathing, coughing, and sneezing.

Q: What are the most common symptoms to look out for?

Common symptoms include a high fever, red and watery eyes, cough, runny nose, tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums and roof of mouth, along with a rash.

“It has a characteristic rash that often will start on the face and spread, so it can look like other viruses, especially early in the course,” Chassee said.

Q: Are people who have had measles in the past still susceptible to the disease?

People who have had measles have immunity, Chassee said, meaning that people born before 1957 are not at risk because they were likely already exposed.

People born after 1989 would be eligible for a measles booster, even if they were inoculated in school, added Chassee. He recommended that people consult with their doctor to see if that booster would be beneficial for their health.

Q: What are steps that people should take to keep themselves protected?

For people who are concerned about contracting measles, Chassee said standard practices, such as washing your hands, are important.

For people who are concerned that they already have the illness, Chassee recommends wearing a mask and letting healthcare professionals know as soon as possible.

In the end, the best thing for everyone to do, in order to protect themselves and others, is to make sure they’re vaccinated, according to Chassee.

“Vaccination, vaccination, and vaccination,” Chassee said. “Especially for protecting those who aren’t able to receive vaccines for medical reasons. So I think that is the most important thing that individuals can do.”

To view the interview with Dr. Chassee in its entirety, go here: