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Two more measles cases identified in Michigan due to international travel

Posted at 8:30 AM, Jul 27, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-27 08:30:21-04

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has identified two additional cases of measles in Michigan for 2018.

Both cases are related to international travel and the individuals involved were residents of Oakland and Washtenaw counties.

Neither case is related to the two previous 2018 Michigan cases, but all four were the result of exposure outside of the country.

MDHHS says one of the affected people arrived at DTW on July 18 and did not advise officials of being ill, but was considered contagious at the time. Health officials are in the process of contacting potentially exposed passengers from the flight. 

Additionally, limited exposure to others at DTW may have occurred as the person exited international baggage claim. MDHHS says the second person was not contagious during their flight or while at DTW.

Those who may have been exposed at DTW should watch for symptoms consistent with measles for 21 days after the possible exposure. If symptoms appear, MDHHS says to contact your health provider promptly.

Measles symptoms begin with a high fever, red eyes, cough and runny nose, and is then followed by a red, raised body rash starting on the head and face that spreads to the rest of the body.

“Measles is easily spread, and these cases emphasize the importance of being up-to-date on all vaccinations for everyone’s protection,” said Dr. Eden Wells, MDHHS chief medical executive. “The bottom line is immunizations are the best way to protect our families and communities from the harmful, sometimes deadly consequences of vaccine-preventable diseases like measles.”