Health Info:
There has been a confirmed case of Measles in the central Maine area. Please familiarize yourself with signs and symptoms to watch for. The child was vaccinated, so everyone needs to be aware.
The CDC reports that measles symptoms typically include a high fever (my spike to more than 104 degrees fahrenheit), cough, runny nose, red watery eyes, and a rash that breaks out 3-5 days after symptoms begin. The rash usually spreads from the head, to body, to arms and legs.
Measles is transmitted when an infected person coughs or sneezes. A person with measles is contagious 4 days before their rash starts through four days after the rash is gone. The measles virus can remain on a surface and in the air for up to two hours after the infected person has left the area. The incubation period after exposure is typically 10 - 14 days but can be as long as 21 days.
The CDC also states that 1 in 4 people with measles end up hospitalized. 1 out of every 1,000 people with measles develop swelling of the brain due to infection, and 1-2 out of every 1,000 people die, despite excellent medical care.
If you, or a family member, experiences the above symptoms, please reach out to your health care provider.