Measles Outbreak Reported in Douglas County

What you need to know and do to prevent the illness and its spread.

On September 02, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced a measles outbreak in Douglas County. Area residents are encouraged to understand how measles spreads, recognize its symptoms, and make sure they and their loved ones are protected.

Why is it called an Outbreak?

On September 2, the IDPH announced that four confirmed, linked cases of measles had been identified among Douglas County residents.

An outbreak is defined as three or more cases connected through a common exposure. This outbreak comes during a year of increased measles activity nationwide.

IDPH is working with local health departments and healthcare providers to identify people who may have been exposed to the illness. Local health departments are providing testing, vaccination opportunities, and guidance for these individuals and the public.

What Is Measles?

Measles is a highly contagious disease caused by a virus. It spreads easily through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Individuals infected with the measles virus are contagious for up to four days before developing symptoms. People who are not protected through vaccination or previous infection are more vulnerable to the virus.

What are the Symptoms of Measles?

Initially, measles looks like the common cold. Symptoms generally develop 7-14 days after exposure to the virus and can include:

• Fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red eyes

After the initial symptoms develop, a flat, red, spotty rash typically appears and covers the head and body. This rash can last three days or longer and may or may not itch. Individuals can continue to spread the illness as long as their symptoms last. These individuals should therefore isolate from others.

What are Some Possible Complications?

Measles can cause serious complications, particularly among infants, young children, pregnant individuals, and people with weakened immune systems. Complications from measles include pneumonia, encephalitis, and blindness, and can result in permanent disability and death.

Vaccination Offers the Best Protection

The best way to prevent measles is through the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

According to IDPH, one dose of the MMR vaccine is about 93% effective at preventing measles. Two doses are about 97% effective.

What If You Never Had the Measles or the Vaccine?

Individuals with no history of measles illness or adequate vaccination remain vulnerable to the virus. Regardless of age, these individuals should speak with their healthcare provider about how to protect themselves from measles.

If you have no known immunity to measles and believe you may have recently been exposed, contact your healthcare provider or local health department as soon as possible for guidance. In some circumstances, vaccination given shortly after exposure may help prevent measles or reduce its severity.

If you think you have symptoms of measles, try to isolate yourself from others to prevent spreading the illness. Again, notify your healthcare provider of your symptoms as soon as possible. Be sure to tell them of your symptoms and possible exposure before going to a doctor’s office, clinic, or emergency department. Notifying these offices that you may have a contagious illness allows healthcare professionals to take precautions to reduce exposure to other patients.

Stay Informed and Take Reasonable Precautions

The current measles outbreak in neighboring Douglas County is an important reminder that diseases can return when opportunities for transmission occur.

We at the Moultrie County Health Department remind you that panic isn’t necessary, but awareness is important. Knowing the symptoms of measles, reviewing your family’s vaccination status, and contacting your healthcare provider or local health department when you have concerns can help protect you, your family, and your community.