Midland Health Department Confirms Measles Case, Investigates Potential Exposures

By Josiah Carrasco

The Midland Health Department has confirmed a case of measles in an adult resident and is actively investigating potential exposures to prevent further transmission. The case is potentially linked to international travel, although further testing is underway to determine the exact location of exposure.

According to a statement from the Health Department, officials are working with state health authorities to conduct thorough contact tracing and identify any individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. Additionally, the Department is providing fact sheets and FAQs about measles on the Midland Health Services website and social media pages to raise public awareness.

Proactive Measures

The Midland Health Department is taking the following steps to reduce the risk of further transmission:

• Conducting contact tracing to notify individuals who may have been exposed.

  
  

• Providing educational resources, including fact sheets and FAQs, on the Midland Health Services website and social media platforms.

  
  

• Coordinating with state health officials to closely monitor and manage the situation.

  
  

Understanding Measles

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus that spreads through coughing, sneezing, and close contact with infected individuals. The virus can remain in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours, making it possible for individuals to become infected even without direct contact with an infected person.

“It is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 90% of unvaccinated people around them will also become infected,” the Health Department stated.

Symptoms of Measles

Symptoms typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure and may include:

• High fever (above 101°F)

  
  

• Cough

  
  

• Runny nose

  
  

• Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)

  
  

• Tiny white spots (Koplik spots) inside the mouth (2-3 days after symptoms begin)

  
  

• A red, flat rash that starts on the face and spreads downward to the rest of the body (3-5 days after symptoms begin)

  
  

People with measles are contagious from four days before the rash appears to four days after it develops.

Guidance for Those Who Believe They Have Been Exposed

The Midland Health Department urges individuals who believe they have been exposed to measles or are experiencing symptoms to take the following precautions:

• Stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others.

  
  

• Contact their healthcare provider or the Midland Health Department before visiting a medical facility to arrange testing in a way that minimizes exposure to others.

  
  

• Monitor for symptoms for up to 21 days after exposure.

  
  

“Vaccination is the best protection against measles,” the Health Department emphasized. “The Midland Health Department offers the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine for individuals who are unvaccinated. Residents are encouraged to check their immunization records and speak with their healthcare provider about their vaccination status.”

Information About Immunity

• People born before 1957 are usually considered immune.

  
  

• Those who have received two doses of the MMR vaccine are also considered protected.

  
  

• Vaccination, even shortly before or after exposure, may prevent or lessen the severity of measles.

  
  

• In certain high-risk individuals—such as pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and unvaccinated infants—immune globulin administered within six days of exposure may help prevent infection.

  
  

The Midland Health Department continues to monitor the situation closely and encourages all residents to stay informed and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their communities.