EIPH recommends checking measles immunization status
As measles cases rise across the country, Idaho has not reported any cases. However, over 100 cases have been reported in neighboring states such as California, Oregon, Washington, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado. Many of these cases originated from exposure to a case of measles in California’s Disneyland and/or California Adventure.
East Idaho Public Health is encouraging parents to review their children’s immunization record or call their doctor or the health district to check immunization status. Epidemiologists said children between one and four years old should have received their first or second MMR vaccine.
“We really encourage everyone to make sure that you are up-to-date on your vaccines,” said surveillance epidemiologist Mike Taylor. “For children that are in school and in daycare and things, it is especially important, because if we do see a case around here, some of those children may be asked to stay home until everyone is better from measles.”
Measles is a serious and very contagious disease and easily spreads from person to person through coughing and sneezing. Cases of measles also may result in additional illnesses, such as pneumonia, swelling of the brain, and may result in hospitalization and high medical costs. In developing countries, hundreds of thousands of measles cases continue to occur, and are just an airplane ride away from the United States. Many of these infected children die. It has been estimated that nine out of 10 unvaccinated people will become infected with measles if they spend time in a meeting, classroom, or other close space with an infected person.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please call EIPH’s immunization program at 208-533-3235.
