United States: The threat of measles has now manifested in Maricopa County, Arizona, with a recent reported case. According to statements from the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, the infection was contracted by an individual who had visited the area.
Details regarding the infection were disclosed by the health agency on Saturday morning. Furthermore, reports indicated that the Health Department, along with other local health authorities, has been diligently investigating the recently reported case of measles – a highly contagious airborne disease that has sparked concerns both in the United States and internationally.
How are health experts addressing the disease?
Dr. Nick Staab, assistant medical director of the Maricopa County Department of Public Health, emphasized, “Measles is both highly infectious and entirely preventable,” as reported by Azcentral.
He continued, “We urge residents to ensure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations and to remain vigilant for measles symptoms, particularly if they are at high risk or unvaccinated.”
How does the infection spread?
The County Public Health Department has stressed that the contagious virus can spread from an infected person through various means. Importantly, the virus can linger in the air for several hours, posing a risk to those who are not vaccinated.
Health experts have cautioned that individuals who have not received vaccination against measles, mumps, and rubella are susceptible to the virus. Moreover, even those who have never contracted the disease could become infected.
Common symptoms of measles!
According to the County Public Health Department, some common symptoms of measles include:
- Cough
- Runny nose
- High fever
- Red or watery eyes
- Rashes
- White spots in the throat
It is noteworthy that rashes are the most prevalent sign or symptom, typically appearing around three to five days post-transmission. Health experts have observed that initially, a rash develops on the forehead, which then spreads downward to cover the rest of the body.
Who is at higher risk of infection?
According to information provided by the County Public Health Department, individuals with weakened immune systems, such as young children, pregnant women, and the elderly, are most susceptible to measles.
What do recent figures indicate about measles spread?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) disclosed that in 2023, approximately 53 cases of measles were reported across 19 states and Washington DC. As of the data released by the news agency on January 25, 2024, there were no reported cases in Arizona.
In 2019, a total of 1,274 individuals in the United States were affected by measles, according to the CDC. It is worth noting that this marked the highest number of cases since 1992.
Health authorities have also noted that the top ten most affected nations are located in the Eastern Hemisphere, according to the CDC.