HILLSDALE COUNTY, MI (WLKI)- The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency has confirmed two cases of measles among Hillsdale County residents.
The agency is working with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to investigate the cases, identify possible public exposure locations and notify people who may have been exposed.
Health officials are urging residents to review their vaccination status with their healthcare provider or through the Michigan Care Improvement Registry. Immunity is generally established through prior infection, being born before 1957 or receiving the recommended doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine.
Medical Director Dr. Karen Luparello said measles is highly contagious, but vaccination provides strong protection.
Symptoms may take as long as 21 days to appear and can include a high fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes and a red, raised rash that commonly begins on the face before spreading to other parts of the body.
Anyone who develops symptoms or believes they may have been exposed is asked to call their healthcare provider before visiting a medical office, clinic or hospital. Health officials say calling ahead can help prevent additional exposure.
To assist residents, the agency's Hillsdale office will hold a special MMR vaccination clinic Saturday, Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. until noon. Scheduled appointments and walk-ins will be accepted.