The Detroit Health Department is urging Detroiters to take precautions to protect against measles, a serious respiratory illness that can lead to complications and death.
The warning comes as cases of the highly contagious virus have been confirmed in Wayne, Washtenaw and Oakland counties. The health department noted it’s working closely with the state and Wayne County health officials to monitor and track cases, all of which have been associated with international travel so far.
“We want Detroiters to put their trust in the Detroit Health Department, and we will do everything we can to keep them safe,” Detroit’s Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo said in a statement. “The Health Department is working diligently to stay ahead of this health concern, and as cases are increasing, we will continue to provide updates and guidance on best practices to prevent the spread of measles.”
Related:
- Measles in Michigan: Washtenaw County reports state’s 2nd case since 2019
- Michigan has first measles case since 2019 as cases climb nationwide
The health department is urging Detroit residents who are exposed to get the Measles, Mumps and Rubella, or MMR, vaccine within 72 hours if they aren’t already considered immune to the virus.
Individuals who received two doses of measles vaccine are considered immune. Additionally, adults born before 1957 or who have had measles are considered immune. For children, the first dose of the vaccine is routinely given at about 12 months and the second, starting at age 4.
The department is partnering with local providers to emphasize the importance of being prepared in the event of an outbreak. The office is also offering the measles vaccination and working to educate parents.
“We want everyone to stay safe and encourage all Detroiters to get vaccinated, especially children,” added Dr. Claudia Richardson, medical director for the Detroit Health Department.
Richardson said that the virus is preventable with a vaccine, even up to 72 hours after exposure. The vaccine is recommended for those ages 12 months and older.
Measles symptoms appear 7 to 14 days following exposure and can include cough, a fever that can be very high (104 degrees and over), and an itchy red rash that starts on the face and can spread to other parts of the body.
Late last month, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported the first confirmed case of the measles in the state since 2019. The case, out of Oakland County, is followed by additional confirmed cases in Washtenaw and Wayne counties.
As of Feb. 29, 41 cases of the virus had been reported in 16 states. In 2023, 58 cases were reported in 20 states.
There is no cure for measles. It can be dangerous for babies, young children, adults 20 and over, people who are pregnant as well as severely immunosuppressed individuals.
Anyone who believes they may have been exposed to measles should monitor for symptoms for 21 days.
The Detroit Health Department offers vaccinations for measles and all childhood vaccination series, plus COVID-19, flu, and RSV at its Immunizations Clinic at 100 Mack Avenue.
Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. Late hours also are available on the first and third Thursday of each month from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
For more information, visit the health department website or call 313-876-IMMS (4667).
