Madison: Confirmed Case of Measles in Dane County
Wisconsin Eagle/10329571

~ A confirmed case of measles has been reported in Dane County, according to Public Health Madison & Dane County. The individual was exposed to the virus during international travel and is not connected to the case confirmed in Waukesha County last week. In order to protect the privacy of the individual, no personal identifying or health information will be released by Public Health.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison has confirmed that the individual is connected to the campus. Janel Heinrich, Director of Public Health Madison & Dane County, stated that they are working with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and the university to identify any potential contacts. More information about possible exposures will be shared as it becomes available.

Heinrich also emphasized the importance of checking immunization status for those who may have come into contact with the infected individual. If someone is found to be unvaccinated, they will be required to quarantine and stay home from work or school.

Public Health's website will be updated with a list of exposure locations for those who may have been in contact with the infected individual. Measles is a highly contagious virus that can spread quickly through coughing and sneezing. Simply being in the same room as someone with measles can lead to infection if an individual has not received the measles vaccine.

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Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, and watery eyes, followed by a rash that typically spreads from the head to other parts of the body. It can be a serious illness that may require hospitalization and can even lead to death. However, it can be prevented by receiving the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine.

Heinrich stressed that the MMR vaccine is safe and effective and much safer than contracting measles itself. She encouraged individuals to check their own and their family members' immunization records either online or by contacting their healthcare provider.

Most people have received the measles vaccine as it is required for school entry. Two doses are recommended, with the first typically given at 12-15 months of age and the second before starting kindergarten at 4-6 years of age.

For those who are uninsured or have Medical Assistance, Public Health offers free vaccines for both adults and children. Vaccination clinics are available at various locations by appointment only. Appointments can be made online or by calling 608-266-4821.

As the situation continues to develop, Public Health Madison & Dane County urges individuals to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others from measles.

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