Measles Case Confirmed in Ottawa County: What to Know

Ottawa County Department of Public Health (OCDPH), working with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, has confirmed a case of measles in an Ottawa County resident. This is the first reported case in the county since 1991.

At this time, there are no public exposure locations to report. If any are identified, updates will be posted at: miottawa.org/measles.

Measles is a very contagious disease that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can spread easily among people who are not immune.

How to know if you are protected

A person is considered immune if they meet one of the following:

• Received 2 doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) vaccine (children K–12 and adults)
• Received 1 dose of MMR vaccine (preschool-aged children)
• Had measles in the past
• Born before 1957

If you are unsure about your vaccination status, contact your healthcare provider or your local health department.

Symptoms to watch for

Symptoms usually appear 7–21 days after exposure and may include:

• High fever (can rise above 104°F)
• Cough, runny nose, and red or watery eyes
• Rash that starts on the face and spreads downward (usually 3–5 days after other symptoms begin)

What to do if symptoms develop

If you feel sick and think it could be measles:

• Call your healthcare provider before going in
• Avoid visiting clinics, urgent care, or emergency rooms without calling first
• Stay away from others until you receive medical guidance

Measles is preventable. Vaccination with two doses of MMR provides strong protection and helps protect those around you, including infants and people who cannot be vaccinated.

“Most people in Ottawa County are already protected. If you are unsure about your vaccination status, now is a good time to check your records and speak with your healthcare provider,” said Gwen Unzicker, MD, Medical Director.

For more information, contact OCDPH at 616-396-5266.

Follow OCDPH for updates:

• Facebook: @miOttawaHealth
• Instagram: @miOCDPH

Report health concerns at miottawa.org/concern.

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