Measles Outbreak in Upper Peninsula
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan is currently grappling with a resurgence of measles, as two adults from Marquette County have recently been confirmed infected with the virus, raising the state’s total number of cases to ten this year. Local health officials are alerting residents to a number of public locations where they may have potentially been exposed to the highly contagious virus.
The Marquette County Health Department first reported one of the cases on May 29, outlining possible exposure sites across three counties, including a bank, grocery store, and urgent care facility. Notably, the virus can remain airborne and infectious for up to two hours after an infected individual has left the area.
Confirmed Exposure Sites
The following locations have been identified as exposure sites:
- Moonspun Wool
219 W Washington St., Marquette, MI, 49855
Monday, May 19, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, May 20, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, May 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Marquette Food Co-op
502 W Washington St., Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesday, May 20, from 6 to 10 p.m. - Midas
2192 US 41, Marquette, MI, 49855
Wednesday, May 21, from 12 to 2:30 p.m. - U.P. Health Systems – Portage, Express Care
921 W Sharon Ave., Houghton, MI, 49931
Monday, May 26, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - Aspirus Ironwood Emergency Department
N10561 Grandview Lane, Ironwood, MI, 49938
Tuesday, May 27, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. - First Bank
1502 W Washington, Marquette, MI, 49855
Tuesday, May 20, and Wednesday, May 21, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday, May 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Friday, May 23, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Meijer
3630 US 41, Marquette, MI, 49855
Friday, May 23, from 5 to 9 p.m. - First Bank
1921 3rd Avenue N, Escanaba, MI, 49829
Thursday, May 22, from 12 to 5 p.m.
With measles being a highly contagious illness that can escalate rapidly in communities lacking robust vaccination coverage, health officials emphasize the urgency for residents to assess their immunization status and seek vaccination if necessary. The measles vaccination is reported to be 97% effective in preventing infection.
Health Precautions and Recommendations
In light of the outbreak, health officials are reminding the public to stay vigilant and practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing and proper covering of the mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. If individuals exhibit symptoms of measles—such as a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, or distinctive rash—it's crucial they isolate themselves and consult their healthcare provider prior to any in-person visit, ensuring that proper precautions can be taken by medical facilities.
Kate Beer, a health officer from the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department, acknowledged that, although measles has been part of their outbreak management procedures, recent concerns have shifted towards more prevalent respiratory viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and RSV. This underscores the importance of awareness and preparedness as the health landscape continues to evolve.
Residents are urged to contact their local health department with any questions regarding vaccination records or advice on vaccination options to prevent further spread of this preventable disease.
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