We got measles info in the school newsletter today (blame non-vaccinated)

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Measles – Information from the Health Department

More measles cases have been reported in the U.S. since January 1, 2008 than during the same period in any

year since 1996 according to a report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Recent outbreaks in the

U.S. highlight the ongoing risk of measles brought in from other countries by people who travel. Since most

of the reported cases were among school-aged children whose parents chose not to have them vaccinated,

the outbreaks also demonstrate the importance of vaccination in preventing measles.

Measles, a rash illness caused by a virus, can be a severe life threatening disease with complications that include ear

infections, pneumonia and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). It spreads easily by droplets from the nose, throat

and mouth. Measles vaccine is recommended at 12-15 months of age, with a second dose given at least 4 weeks later

or typically before the start of kindergarten. It is usually given as a combination vaccine (MMR) with mumps and rubella

vaccines. Please remember to call the Oakland County Health Division Communicable Disease office at

to report a suspected measles case. For more information on measles, you can go to:

www.oakgov.com/health/assets/Documents/fs_measles.pdf or http://kidshealth.org/parent/infections/lung/measles.html