As measles cases increase across the United States and internationally, a case of measles among international visitors has been confirmed in Maricopa County. The Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) is currently conducting an investigation.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can be transmitted through the air. Unvaccinated people are at the highest risk of developing the disease if infected. The measles virus can survive in the air for several hours and can infect unvaccinated people even after an infected person leaves the room. Almost anyone exposed to measles will become ill if they have not received the measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine or have had measles in the past. People who have measles can spread the disease to others even before they become sick. Measles can cause serious illness, especially in young children, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.

“Measles is highly contagious and completely preventable,” said MCDPH Associate Medical Director Dr. Nick Staab. “We encourage residents to stay informed about vaccines and to be aware of measles symptoms, especially those at high risk or who have not been vaccinated,” Dr. Staab said. added.

Measles usually begins with a high fever, cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes. Usually the rash appears after 3-5 days. The rash often starts on the forehead and spreads downward to other parts of the body. The typical rash may not be seen in people who are immunocompromised or who received her MMR vaccination between 1964 and 1967.

Symptoms consistent with measles include:

It may take up to 21st Symptoms begin to appear after the last contact with a person infected with measles.

If you develop a fever, cough, runny nose, rash, or other measles symptoms:

• PSelf-isolate, stay away from others, and call your health care provider by phone to let them know you are concerned that you may have measles. They will let you know when to visit the office so you don't infect others in the waiting room.
• If you do not have a health care provider and require treatment, please contact an emergency medical facility or hospital. in front Visit them and tell them you suspect you have measles.

If your health care provider believes you have measles, please notify MCDPH immediately by calling (602) 506-6767 so that appropriate follow-up can begin. receive.

MCDPH will provide further information as the investigation progresses.

For more information about measles, visit the MCDPH Measles website.