MOHAVE COUNTY – Due to recent media coverage regarding a measles case in Southwestern Utah, the Mohave County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has received questions and concerns from our community about measles. Currently there are no confirmed measles cases in Mohave County.
MCDPH is actively monitoring the situation and will provide timely updates if anything changes. Residents who are worried about possible exposure or are experiencing symptoms should reach out to their healthcare provider or contact the Mohave County Department of Public Health at (928) 753-0748.
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can also live on surfaces or in the air for up to two hours. Individuals can also become infected by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth.
Symptoms to watch for
Symptoms typically develop seven (7) to 14 days after exposure and may include:
• High fever
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red, watery eyes
• A rash that starts at the hairline and spreads downward.
The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the best protection against infection. Two doses of MMR are about 97% effective at preventing measles. The vaccine has been used safely since 1968 and has helped prevent millions of deaths worldwide.
“Measles is not a mild childhood illness; it can cause pneumonia, brain swelling, and death,” said Lynne Valentine, RN, BSN, Nursing Services Manager at MCDPH. “We’re asking everyone to check their vaccination records and to reach out to our public health nurses with any questions they may have.”
What to do if you feel sick
Call your health care provider. Please do not go into the hospital or doctor’s office without calling first. For more information on the measles or the vaccines, please speak to your primary care provider or contact Mohave County Department of Health at (928) 753-0748, or visit https://www.cdc.gov/measles/about/questions.html.
