Measles
The Florida Department of Health has released a statement in regards to the multistate measles outbreak. The following is a summary of the statement.
While there have been no confirmed measles cases in Florida residents, we have seen confirmed cases in visitors, some of whome were evaluated by Florida healthcare providers but not tested or diagnosed.
Measles is a highly contagious disease, transmitted by respiratory aerosols when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can live for up to two hours on surfaces or in an airspace where the infected person coughed or sneezed. The incubation period ranges from 7-21 (average 10-12) days and an individual can pass the virus to others before feeling ill. The prodromal signs and symptons of measles include:
- Fever
- Malaise
- Coryza
- Cough
- Conjunctivitis
- Pathognomonic Enanthema—Koplik spots—on the oral mucosa
Please note: the presence of Kiplik spots confirms measles, but the absence of Koplik spots does not rule it out, as it is present in only a small percentage of cases.
An erythematous maculopapular rash typically appears—behind the ears, on the forehead, spreading down the neck, upper extremities, trunks, and lower extremities (including palms and soles)—3 days after onset of illness and the ill person continues to be infections for about 4 days after rash appears. Rash may last 5-7 days before fading.
Complications from meales may include:
- Otitis Media
- Bronchopneumonia
- Laryngotracheobronchitis
- Diarrhea
- Acute Encephalitis
- Death
Remember, the best way to prevent the spread of measles is to ensure full MMR vaccine coverage in our community.
