Public health officials report measles outbreak in Indiana
Contributed By: The 411 News
Lake County Health Dept. clinics offer measles vaccines
Indiana’s first confirmed case of measles has been reported in Allen County. This is Indiana’s first case since measles was confirmed in a Lake County resident in early 2024.
While the risk to the general public is low, measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can spread quickly among unvaccinated individuals. As of April 4, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a total of 607 confirmed cases in 22 jurisdictions across the United States.
Measles is entirely preventable through vaccination.
Immunizations not only protects the individual but also helps to protect the broader community by preventing the spread of the virus. We urge all eligible Hoosier’s to check their vaccination status and take immediate action if needed.
Appointments are not needed at the Lake County Health Department Vaccination Clinics
Tuesday, April 15, from 4-8pm at the Dean and Barbara White Center, 6600 Broadway, Merrillville.
Monday-Friday, from 9am-4pm at the Immunization Clinic, Lake County Health Department, 2900 West 93rd Ave, Crown Point.
Individuals born before 1957 are presumed to be immune to measles. If you are unsure about your or your family’s vaccination status, reach out to your healthcare provider or contact the health department for guidance at (219) 755-3655.
Together, we can prevent the further spread of measles and keep our community safe.
Symptoms
Measles typically starts with a fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes, usually appearing 7 to 14 days after exposure, but symptoms can develop up to 21 days later.
The fever can rise significantly, reaching as high as 105°F. A few days after the initial symptoms, tiny white spots (Koplik spots) may appear inside the mouth.
Two to four days after the symptoms start, a rash usually appears on the hairline and face, then spreads to the back, torso, arms, hands, legs, and feet. After about five days, the rash gradually fades in the reverse order in which it appeared.
What you can do
If you have symptoms of measles, stay home and contact your healthcare provider immediately before visiting the doctor's office.
Be ready to explain your symptoms and inform your doctor if you suspect you’ve been exposed to someone with measles. If you're diagnosed with measles, remain at home and avoid contact with others, especially unvaccinated infants, individuals with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women.
Story Posted:04/13/2025
|
