On Saturday morning, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health announced that a visitor from abroad had been confirmed as a carrier of measles within Maricopa County.
The County Public Health Department stated that it was investigating this case of measles due to the increasing number of cases of this highly contagious airborne disease both in the United States and overseas.
The department emphasized that unvaccinated individuals face the highest risk of contracting the illness if exposed.
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Dr. Nick Staab, the assistant medical director of the department, emphasized in a statement that measles is highly infectious and entirely preventable.
He urged residents to ensure they are up-to-date with their vaccinations and to be vigilant for symptoms of measles, particularly those who are at high risk or have not been vaccinated.
The County Public Health Department noted that measles can lead to severe illness, particularly in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems.
Measles Symptoms
Based on the County Public Health Department, individuals affected by measles will typically exhibit the following symptoms:
- Elevated body temperature
- Persistent coughing
- Nasal congestion leading to a runny nose
- Inflammation and irritation of the eyes, characterized by redness or excessive tearing
- The onset of a distinctive rash, typically appearing three to five days following transmission, beginning on the forehead and gradually spreading to encompass the entire body. It is noted, however, that individuals with compromised immune systems and those immunized between 1964 and 1967 may not necessarily develop the classic rash.
- Presence of white spots in the throat
The County Public Health Department further states that symptoms may not manifest for a period of up to 21 days following exposure to the virus.
Measles Transmission
As per the County Public Health Department, the measles virus can spread through various means:
- The virus can remain airborne for several hours, potentially affecting individuals who are unvaccinated, even after the infected person has left the area.
- Almost all individuals who come into contact with the measles virus and lack immunity from vaccination or prior infection will develop the illness.
- Measles transmission can occur even before the carrier displays symptoms of illness.