Oakland County Confirms Measles​ Case: What To Know

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI — Health officials confirmed a pediatric measles case in Oakland County on Tuesday.

Officials said those who were at DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital's emergency department in Commerce Township on Sunday, Dec. 6, between 7:20 p.m. and 11:10 p.m. may have been exposed.

Officials said they are working with the hospital to identify people who may have been exposed so they can be connected with resources and recommendations.

This is the county's second measles case this year. The first case was found in a person who visited a Rochester Hills medical office building in June.

Officials say measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease that is spread by direct person-to-person contact and through the air. Anyone who is not immune to measles is at risk.

"Vaccination is the most effective tool we have to prevent the spread of measles," Oakland County Health Officer Kate Guzman said. "The measles (MMR) vaccine helps protect our community’s most vulnerable which includes infants, children with medical conditions, and others who cannot be vaccinated."

Symptoms of measles usually begin within seven to 14 days after exposure and can appear up to 21 days after exposure. They include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, tiny white spots on the inner cheeks and rashes.

If symptoms develop, residents are urged to not visit their doctor or emergency room unless they have called ahead so facilities can take precautions to prevent exposure to other people.

Officials say the best protection against measles is the MMR vaccine, which provides long-lasting protection against the virus. They strongly encourage individuals ages 1 year and older who have not received the MMR vaccine to protect themselves and others.

Vaccines are available at your doctor’s office, most pharmacies and your local health department. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive no-cost vaccination from a provider enrolled in that program.