NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Health and the Shelby County Health Department are investigating two cases of measles after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Thursday afternoon confirmed positive tests for the illness in two Memphis-area residents.
At this time there is no known connection between the two individuals and the source of the virus has not yet been identified. TDH, SCHD and the CDC anticipate additional measles cases to be confirmed in the Memphis area.
While the investigation is currently centered in Shelby County, all Tennesseans should have heightened awareness about measles and its symptoms. These symptoms may include a blotchy rash, runny nose, fever, aches, watery eyes and white spots in the mouth. Nearly one in three patients will develop ear infections, diarrhea or pneumonia.
The measles virus is highly contagious and can stay airborne or live on surfaces for up to two hours. Recently infected people may not have any symptoms of illness, but can transmit the virus for about five days before the typical measles rash appears.
“Most people in Tennessee are vaccinated against measles and that’s important because it takes a very high vaccination rate to protect vulnerable people like infants and people with weakened immune systems from measles,” said TDH Commissioner John Dreyzehner, MD, MPH. “The measles-mumps-rubella, or MMR vaccine is safe and readily available across Tennessee, and your health care provider can provide guidance for when people should get it. Please, be sure you are up-to date on MMR, and if you or someone you love have measles symptoms, ‘call before you go’ to a health care center to keep others from being exposed. If you have a question about what to do, call your health care provider or local health department.”
The Department of Health says that in Tennessee, there have only been nine previous cases of measles since 2004, thanks to good efforts by parents to have their children immunized with two doses of the measles vaccine.
All children are encouraged to have their first measles vaccinations at age 12-15 months, followed by a second dose at four to six years of age. Teens and adults should check with their doctors to make sure they are protected against measles. People six months and older should be protected against measles before leaving for international trips. For more information about measles, visit www.cdc.gov/masles/index.html.