PUBLIC HEALTH ADVISORY-PROTECTING OUR COMMUNITIES FROM MEASLES

Public Health Advisory-Protecting Our Communities from Measles

The Mohave County Department of Public Health is encouraging residents of Colorado City and surrounding areas to stay informed about measles, a highly contagious and potentially serious illness that is currently active within the community. The first step in safeguarding one’s family starts with knowing how measles is transmitted, the dangers it presents, and the precautions that should be taken to decrease the risk of infection.

WHY AWARENESS MATTERS

Measles is not just a childhood illness; it can cause long-term health complications, result in hospitalization, or even death. Measles spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can linger for up to two hours after the infected person leaves the area. Without the protection of vaccination or prior immunity, nine out of 10 people who are exposed to measles will become infected.

Those at greatest risk include:
• Pregnant women
• Infants and children younger than five years of age
• Adults older than 20 years of age
• People with weakened immune systems
• Anyone who has not received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine

POSSIBLE HEALTH EFFECTS

Measles can cause severe health problems, including:
• Pneumonia
• Brain swelling (encephalitis)
• Fever-induced seizures
• Permanent hearing or vision loss
• In rare cases paralysis, or death

One of the most serious long-term complications is Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE), a rare but fatal brain disease that can occur seven to 11 years after measles infection, particularly in children infected at a very young age.

WHEN TO SEEK EMERGENCY CARE

Immediate medical attention is needed if symptoms worsen or any of the following occur:
• Trouble breathing or rapid breathing
• Pain when breathing or coughing
• Severe dehydration (dry mouth, few wet diapers, no tears when crying)
• Persistent fever or headache
• Confusion, weakness, or decreased alertness
• Blue coloring around the mouth, extreme fatigue, or difficulty feeding in young children

Always call ahead before arriving at a hospital or clinic so staff can take precautions to prevent further spread.

PREVENTION AND CARE
MMR Vaccine

The MMR vaccine is the best protection against measles. Creek Valley Health Clinic, a nonprofit community health center, provides the measles vaccine:

• Free for children through insurance or the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program
• Covered by most insurance plans for adults
• Available on a sliding fee scale for those without insurance

The clinic also offers measles testing in an outdoor space to reduce the spread of contagious illness.

Residents should call or text 435-900-1104 for questions or to schedule an appointment.

Vitamin A

Supplementing with Vitamin A does not stop measles. Although Vitamin A is utilized in countries where Vitamin A deficiency is more common and vaccination resources are limited, it does not replace the need for the MMR vaccine. Always consult your healthcare provider, as they can recognize any underlying health issues and offer tailored advice for each person.

The Mohave County Department of Public Health is committed to providing the community with trustworthy information and resources. This helps everyone understand potential risks, allowing them to work with their healthcare providers for a better understanding of health outcomes. Vaccination, early detection of symptoms, and prompt medical attention are essential in safeguarding our families, neighbors, and the most vulnerable individuals in our community.

Mohave County Department of Public Health’s mission is to promote, protect, and improve the health of our communities. For more information about our programs and services, please visit https://www.mohave.gov/departments/public-health/