OAKLAND COUNTY, Mich. (WXYZ) — The Oakland County Health Division announced the end of the largest local measles outbreak since 1991.
Health officials say the outbreak began in March when an ill traveler from New York visited the area. Forty of the 44 confirmed cases in Michigan occurred in Oakland County.
Infected individuals ranged from 8 months to 63 years old.
“Health Division leaders and staff worked tirelessly to combat this outbreak and protect the health and safety of Oakland County residents,” said County Executive L. Brooks Patterson in a release. “Their effort is a remarkable example of the dedication and care it takes to contain such a highly contagious illness.”
More than 3,300 measles vaccines were administered. Health officials say that a key part of containing the outbreak was providing technical assistance to healthcare providers, schools, childcare facilities, summer camps and community organizations.
“The end of this outbreak is a true testament to the work of Health Division staff and our invaluable community partners,” said Leigh-Anne Stafford, health officer for the Oakland County Health Division. "We are thankful that this outbreak has ended, and hope it also serves as a reminder of how important getting vaccinated is to prevent future outbreaks in Oakland County.”
