With several measles cases currently being investigated across five Northern California counties (Sacramento, Shasta, Butte, Tehama and Placer), health officials are reminding individuals to take precautions. Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. "One of the best ways to prevent measles is to ensure that you are up-to-date on vaccinations," advised El Dorado County Public Health Officer, Dr. Nancy Williams. "If you suspect that you have measles, consult with your healthcare provider and stay home if you are sick so that you don't expose others."
Measles is widespread in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. Measles begins with a fever that lasts for a couple of days, followed by a cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and a rash. The rash typically appears first on the face, along the hairline, and behind the ears and then affects the rest of the body. Infected people are usually contagious from about 4 days before their rash starts to 4 days afterwards.
Two doses of MMR vaccine are recommended to protect against measles. However, adults born before 1957 are considered immune. Adults born on or after 1957 who have one or two doses of MMR are considered protected. Adults planning international travel, health care workers and college students are recommended to have documentation of two doses of MMR. Most healthcare providers offer the vaccine. The El Dorado County Public Health Division also offers low and no-cost childhood vaccinations, including the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) vaccine, for children who do not have health insurance or who are on Medi-Cal. If you have further questions, call the El Dorado County Communicable Disease Unit at (530) 621-6320.
Read the rest of this El Dorado County Health and Human Services press release regarding measles here.
Visit the California Department of Public Health Immunization Branch website for the most up to date summary of measles activity in California, and click here for immunization recommendations.
Read more about the effectiveness and safety of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine here.
