A family member has reported that a young child in Alpine has measles, raising concern about a possible local case of the highly contagious disease. The report has not been independently confirmed, and no public health notice identifying a local exposure was found as of Monday, Sept. 28.
The family member said the child had received one dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. The source of the child’s reported infection has not been established. The family member’s belief that an unvaccinated child passed on the virus has not been verified.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a first MMR dose at 12 to 15 months of age and a second at 4 to 6 years. A second dose can be given earlier in some circumstances if at least 28 days have passed since the first; parents should discuss timing with their child’s health care provider.
Measles commonly begins with fever, cough, a runny nose and red eyes, followed by a rash. Anyone who believes they or their child has been exposed or has symptoms should call a health care provider before arriving so the facility can take steps to prevent further exposure.
