The total number of confirmed measles cases in Indiana is up to 15 according to state health officials. However, the latest confirmed case does not pose a risk of spreading since the individual has been in self-isolation since being exposed.
State Health Commissioner, Gregory Larkin, M.D., says that it is good news that this individual was able to stay home and avoid exposing anyone else while infectious.
Although measles is rare in the United States due to the widespread use of vaccinations, this is the second measles outbreak in Indiana in less than a year.
“In general, when we experience measles in the United States, it’s a result of an unvaccinated U.S. resident traveling abroad or a foreign visitor from a part of the world where measles is endemic,” said State Health Commissioner Gregory Larkin, M.D. “Measles can and does happen in the U.S., but we can safely and easily protect ourselves by becoming vaccinated.”
If you have any questions, the Indiana State Department of Health has a hotline available to the general public at 1-877-826-0011. State Health Department staff will be taking calls Monday through Friday from 8:15 AM to 4:45 PM.
Top 5 Hotline Questions Answered by the Indiana State Health Department:
Why am I considered immune if I was born prior to 1957? What if I don’t remember having the measles or the vaccine?
Answer: Prior to the advent of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in 1963, measles was endemic in the U.S. Many children got measles during that time and developed antibodies to prevent reoccurrence of disease. It was considered one of the “childhood diseases” that most kids got. Your health care provider may be able to check your immunization status through the Indiana Immunization Registry, CHIRP, or can test you for immunity.
What if I don’t know my immune status?
Answer: If you are unsure, you can ask your local health department or health care provider to check your vaccination record. Two doses of MMR are needed to be fully protected.
What kind of protection do I get from the vaccine?
Answer: the MMR vaccine is very good at protecting you from measles. Most people will develop antibodies (immunity) with the first dose, but the second dose is needed to boost that immunity and will fully protect 99% of individuals who receive it.
What about my child that is less than 1 year of age? Can I take them out in public since they are too young for vaccine?
Answer: Yes. You and your family may continue with normal activities. The State Health Department and local health officials are working with the known cases and then reaching out to those who may have been exposed to make sure they are protected. You can also speak with your pediatrician or health care provider
If my child receives a vaccination before 12 months of age (common age for first MMR vaccination), does that count as a valid dose or will he/she still need two doses?
Answer: Children as young as 6 months can receive an MMR vaccine in the event of an outbreak, however vaccinations given prior to 12 months of age will not “count” for school entry purposes in Indiana. Please consult with your pediatrician or health care provider.
Symptoms of Measles:
- Begins with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes about 7-10 days after exposure.
- Fever increases and can get as high as 105 degrees.
- Two to four days later, a rash develops on face and upper neck.
- Rash spreads down back and trunk, then extends to arms and hands, including legs and feet.
- After approximately 5 days, rash fades.
Measles is highly contagious. When an infected person sneezes or coughs, droplets spray into the air and are inhaled by others, with such droplets remaining active and contagious for up to 2 hours in the air and on infected surfaces. Measles can also be transmitted when moist secretions from an infected person's nose and mouth come into contact with another person. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent transmission.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of measles, stay home, and call your doctor right away. Tell your doctor if you think you have been in contact with an infected person, and be prepared to describe your symptoms.
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