Madisonville Faces Measles Alert
Madisonville, KY – Health officials are on alert after a case of measles has been confirmed in a Tennessee student attending Western Kentucky University. The student, who is unvaccinated, recently returned from international travel where it is believed they contracted the virus.
The alert comes following the student attending several classes and activities on campus and within the Madisonville community while being infectious. This exposure occurred on August 28, 29, and 30. To protect the privacy of the individual, no further details have been shared.
Understanding Measles
Measles is a highly contagious respiratory virus that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically start appearing between 8 to 12 days after exposure and include:
- High fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes
Around three to five days after symptoms begin, a characteristic measles rash usually appears, first on the face and then spreading to the rest of the body.
Health Advisory
Dr. Steven Stack, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health (KDPH), emphasized the danger of measles, stating, “Measles is one of the most contagious viruses.” He advised anyone who may have been exposed and who is unvaccinated to quarantine for 21 days and immediately contact a healthcare provider if they develop symptoms.
To ensure the safety of others, Dr. Stack recommended calling the healthcare facility in advance to notify them of potential measles exposure. This action helps prevent further spread of the virus.
Vaccination Status in Kentucky
The standard measles vaccine, usually given in combination with mumps and rubella (MMR), is administered to children at the ages of 12-15 months for the first dose and again at 4-6 years for the second dose. Data shows that two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles.
Despite this effectiveness, the latest immunization report shows that only 90% of Kentucky kindergarteners are vaccinated with the MMR vaccine, which is below the Healthy People 2030 target of 95%.
“Measles is only an airplane ride away,” Dr. Stack noted, highlighting the importance of vaccination. Fortunately, many residents in Kentucky are immune due to safe and effective vaccination practices.
Recent Measles Outbreaks
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported several measles outbreaks linked to international travel in recent months. Earlier in the year, the CDC issued an advisory about rising measles cases both globally and within the United States.
While no additional measles cases have been reported in Kentucky since this alert, the KDPH had previously collaborated with the Ohio Department of Health in January regarding a measles exposure incident at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.
As the situation develops, health officials encourage everyone to remain informed about their vaccinations and to stay vigilant for symptoms. The best way to protect both individual and community health is through awareness and proper vaccination.
