Hawaii Well being Division confirms measles in Oahu resident

State well being officers are investigating a case of measles in an unvaccinated Oahu resident upon coming back from worldwide journey. Officers declined to reveal the age of the person, together with whether or not or not it was a pediatric case.

Officers have already recognized these with identified publicity to the case, and are working to stop the unfold of the illness, the Hawaii Division of Well being mentioned.

Well being care suppliers are additionally requested to be on alert for doable instances.

Measles, a vaccine-preventable illness, may be very contagious, officers mentioned. It’s attributable to a virus that spreads via the air when an contaminated particular person coughs or sneezes.

“The pandemic precipitated setbacks for childhood immunization applications worldwide,” mentioned State Epidemiologist Dr. Sarah Kemble in a information launch. “Because of this, we’re seeing will increase in outbreaks globally, and typically outbreaks in america as nicely. We’re very lucky to have a protected and extremely efficient vaccine towards measles. This can be a reminder to examine your youngster’s immunization standing and ensure they’re up-to-date on all really helpful pictures.”

Signs normally begin with a excessive fever, cough, runny nostril and pink, watery eyes, adopted by a breakout of tiny, pink spots that begin on the face and unfold to the remainder of the physique.

The Well being Division mentioned mumps, measles, and rubella vaccination charges have dropped amongst kids globally and nationally since pre-pandemic years.

MMR vaccines are a part of routine childhood vaccines, normally given on the one-year, well-child go to.

Well being officers just lately expressed considerations that the share of Hawaii kids not vaccinated for diseases equivalent to mumps and measles, or not receiving the complete roster of pictures required for college, has jumped for the reason that arrival COVID-19.

Whereas Hawaii has not skilled any current outbreaks or unfold of measles, DOH mentioned, this case is a reminder that measles could be introduced again when residents or vacationers are uncovered abroad and re-enter the state.

Measles may cause severe well being problems, particularly in kids below 5 and in infants below 1 who’re too younger to be vaccinated towards measles.

“All eligible keiki ought to be vaccinated towards measles,” mentioned DOH Director Dr. Kenneth Fink within the launch. “Prevention is straightforward. Don’t miss a possibility to guard your youngster towards this severe illness.”

Extra details about measles is on the market at www.cdc.gov/measles.