Measle cases in Michigan this year are at their highest in more than two decades.
15 cases of measles have been reported in Michigan so far this year. Heath officials say the number hasn’t been that high since 1994 when there were 26 cases.
Lynn Sutfin is a spokesperson with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. She said Michigan isn’t the only place with a measles problem.
“Across the country there’s been about 142 cases so far this year. There’s been some measles outbreaks in western Europe, much of it is to do with international travel and not being vaccinated when people are doing these kind of travels to countries where measles is becoming an issue.”
Sutfin said symptoms include fever, red eyes, cough, runny nose, and a red raised body rash. She said measles can lead to pneumonia, hospitalization, and death.
Sutfin said the illness is contagious a few days before you start showing symptoms, so it can spread easily if you aren’t vaccinated.
More information on vaccines can be found by clicking here.