LEONARDTOWN, MD (May 13, 2014) – The recent case of a Virginia resident diagnosed with a confirmed case of measles reminds us of the importance of adult immunizations. The Virginia Department of Health has alerted the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene of possible exposure by Maryland residents who worked or shopped in northern Virginia, particularly in Fairfax and Loudon counties, during the infectious period of April 23 – May 1. Secondary exposure (those exposed to people who had contact with the infected person) may have occurred between April 30 – May 22.
Persons who might have been exposed to measles should be alert for symptoms which usually occur from 7 to 21 days after exposure. Measles is a highly contagious disease spread through coughing, sneezing, and contact with secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat of an infected individual. Symptoms include high fever, runny nose, cough and a rash.
Vaccination is the best protection against measles. Although it is too late for susceptible exposed persons to receive post-exposure vaccination, immune globulin may be given to infants, unvaccinated pregnant women, and unvaccinated persons with suppressed immune systems within 6 days of exposure. Residents who are unsure of their vaccination status or have not received 2 doses of measles vaccine should be vaccinated as soon as possible unless their primary care provider recommends against it.
“Many people mistakenly think that immunizations are only for children and adolescents,” said Melanie Gardiner, Director of Preparedness and Response at the St. Mary’s County Health Department. “Some adults may not have been vaccinated as a child or, for those who were, immunity may begin to fade over time. Adults should check with their primary care physician to determine if additional vaccinations are recommended.”
Anyone showing symptoms of measles should stay at home to avoid exposing others, and contact their healthcare provider prior to visiting a medical setting as soon as possible. For additional information on adult vaccinations, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/index.html . The St. Mary’s County Health Department can provide adult vaccines for a fee and by appointment. For more information, please visit the health department’s website at http://www.smchd.org/immunizations/ .