Department of Health Encourages Measles Vaccinations Following Increased Measles Cases on Oahu

HONOLULU - The Department of Health is alerting physicians and the public of a recent increase in the number of locally-acquired measles cases. So far this year, the Department has identified a total of nine cases of locally-acquired measles on Oahu as compared to zero cases for the same time period in 2002.

“We’re concerned about these locally-acquired cases because measles is such a highly contagious disease. The best defense against measles is vaccination. Parents are strongly urged to check their child’s vaccination schedule and keep it up to date,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Effler.

Prior to the introduction of measles immunizations in 1965, measles was a common childhood illness leaving lasting protection. Current recommendations are that infants receive their first measles, mumps and rubella vaccination (MMR) between 12-15 months of age. Children 12 months and older attending preschool must have documentation of receiving one dose of the MMR vaccination. Students attending kindergarten through grade 12, college and other post-secondary schools in Hawai`i must have documentation of having received two doses of MMR vaccine. Adults born after 1957 may also need immunization if potentially exposed to measles.

Measles has the potential to spread rapidly within the community; therefore the Health Department is alerting all physicians to maintain a high level of suspicion for measles among their patients with fever and rash illness. Physicians are to report cases to the Department, which conducts an intensive investigation, and implements control measures.

Measles is characterized by runny nose, high fever, cough, reddened eyes, rash and a red blotchy rash, which usually lasts about four days. The rash commonly begins on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. Complications such as pneumonia, croup and diarrhea occur commonly in young children. Nationally, death occurs in 1 to 3 of every 1,000 cases predominantly resulting from respiratory and neurologic complications. Case fatality rates are increased in children younger than 5 years or age and immuno-compromised children.

# # #

For more information, contact:

Janice Okubo, Department of Health
Phone: (808) 586-4442

---

Measles Fact Sheet

What is measles?
Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable rash illness caused by a virus. Although measles is commonly thought of as a childhood disease, susceptible persons of all ages can get it. Up to 6% of persons who get measles will develop pneumonia; 60% of the deaths from measles are caused by pneumonia. Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), ear infections, and seizures may also occur. Measles illness can be very serious when it occurs in infants and young children.

How do you get it?
Anyone who has not had measles previously or who has not received the vaccine can get measles. You get measles by exposure to secretions from the nose or throat of a person with the disease. Measles is so contagious that it can be transmitted by merely being in the same room as an infected person.

What are the symptoms of measles?
The symptoms usually occur in two stages. The first stage commonly begins with a fever, runny nose (coryza), and cough. In the second stage, a red blotchy rash appears and usually lasts for at least 4 days. The rash commonly begins on the face and then spreads to the rest of the body. A high fever (101°F or higher) usually accompanies the rash, along with cough, conjunctivitis (reddened eyes), and runny nose.

When do symptoms start?
The fever, runny nose, and cough usually appear 10 days after exposure to the virus, but the onset can range from 7 to 18 days. The rash follows 3 to 7 days after the onset of first symptoms.

For how long is a person with measles contagious?
A person is contagious from just before the first symptoms appear to 4 days after the onset of rash.

What is the treatment for measles?
There is no specific treatment for measles. Rest and symptomatic treatment are adequate in uncomplicated infections.

If you get measles once, can you get it again?
No. Getting measles once protects you from getting it again.

Is there a vaccine for measles?
Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all infants receive a measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination at 12-15 months of age. A second dose is recommended at age 4-6 years. Adults born after 1957 may also need immunization if potentially exposed to measles.

Should a person with measles be excluded from work or school?
Yes. Any person diagnosed with measles should be excluded from school or work for 4 days after the onset of rash.

How can you keep from getting it?
The best way to keep from getting measles is to get vaccinated.