Measles
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Oakland County Health Division have confirmed the state's first measles case of 2025 in an adult resident of Oakland County. The individual recently returned from international travel, and their vaccination status is currently unknown.
Potential Exposure Sites and Dates:
Kruse & Muer on Main:
327 S. Main Street, Rochester, MI
Monday, March 3, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Henry Ford Rochester Hospital Emergency Department:
1101 W. University Drive, Rochester, MI
Saturday, March 8, from 3:40 a.m. to Sunday, March 9, at 9:32 a.m.
Monday, March 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Individuals who visited these locations during the specified times may have been exposed to measles.
Measles Overview:
Measles is a highly contagious, vaccine-preventable disease transmitted through direct contact and airborne particles from coughing or sneezing. The virus can remain active in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves the area.
Symptoms to Watch For:
High fever (which may spike above 104°F)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
Tiny white spots inside the mouth (Koplik spots)
Red, blotchy rash that typically starts on the face and spreads to the trunk, arms, and legs
Symptoms usually begin 7-14 days after exposure but can appear up to 21 days later.
Recommendations for Parents:
Ensure your children receive the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. The first dose is recommended at 12-15 months of age, and the second dose at 4-6 years. The MMR vaccine is highly effective in preventing measles.
The measles vaccine (MMR) can be given early in certain circumstances. Infants 6-11 months old may receive an early dose of the MMR vaccine if they will be traveling internationally or if they have been exposed to measles. This dose does not count in the series and they would still need to receive 2 doses after 1 year old. If your child has received only one dose of MMR, the second dose may be given 4 weeks after the first dose if you desire to complete the series early.
Monitor for Symptoms: If your child develops symptoms consistent with measles, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Call ahead before visiting to allow the facility to take appropriate precautions and prevent further exposure.
If you believe your child was exposed to measles on or after March 10, consult your healthcare provider about Immune Globulin (Ig) treatment, which can be effective within six days of exposure for high-risk individuals.
Additional Resources:
Oakland County Health Division: For more information on measles and vaccination services, visit oakgov.com/health or contact Nurse on Call at 800-848-5533 or noc@oakgov.com.
Staying informed and proactive is crucial in protecting your family and the community from measles. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against this highly contagious disease.