Measles Case Confirmed in Georgia Infant
The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed a case of measles in the state. The patient is an infant who is too young to have received the routine measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination.
According to the health department, the baby acquired the virus while traveling internationally. The DPH is currently conducting an investigation to identify anyone who may have been exposed to the infected child and is notifying those individuals directly. The department has not released the specific county of residence for the infant at this time.
A Serious and Highly Contagious Disease
Measles is a serious respiratory disease caused by a virus. It is one of the most contagious infectious diseases; the virus can live for up to two hours in an airspace where an infected person coughed or sneezed. Symptoms typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure and include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
- A rash that spreads from the head to the rest of the body
Complications from measles can be severe, especially for young children and infants, and can include pneumonia, encephalitis (swelling of the brain), and even death.
The Importance of Vaccination
This case underscores the critical importance of community vaccination. The MMR vaccine is highly effective and safe. The CDC recommends that children receive two doses: the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age and the second dose at 4 through 6 years of age.
High vaccination rates create “herd immunity,” which protects those who cannot be vaccinated, such as infants under one year old, individuals with certain medical conditions, or those with compromised immune systems. The Georgia DPH is urging all Georgians to ensure they and their families are up-to-date on their MMR vaccinations.
Anyone who believes they or their child has been exposed to measles or is experiencing symptoms should contact their healthcare provider immediately. It is important to call ahead before visiting a doctor’s office or emergency room to prevent potential spread in waiting areas.
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