The measles virus
The latest update for the ongoing measles outbreak locally lists five new confirmed cases and one new exposure site, coinciding with Gov. Jay Inslee’s announcement of a local public health emergency as a result of the disease’s spread.
Clark County Public Health announced today that the number of confirmed cases rose to 30, with nine more suspected. They have also announced an additional potential exposure site.
•God Will Provide Church, 7321 NE 110th St., Vancouver
7 to 11 pm Friday, Jan. 18.
Inslee’s announcement that came today “directs state agencies and departments to utilize state resources and do everything reasonably possible to assist affected areas.” The proclamation will allow use of the nationwide Emergency Management Assistance Compact, through which Washington can request additional medical resources from other states.
Measles: what to know
Those who may have been exposed and believe they have measles symptoms are asked to contact their healthcare provider prior to visiting their offices to avoid more exposure.
Public Health is requiring the exclusion of students and staff without documented immunity to measles from schools identified as possible exposure sites. The exclusion does not apply to students and staff at schools where measles exposure did not occur.
Those with the disease are contagious for four days before a rash appears and up to four days after the rash appears, according to Public Health. The department noted that children younger than 5 and adults older than 20 were most likely to suffer complications including lung and ear infections, diarrhea and in rare cases swelling of the brain.
Public health did note some likely immune groups, such as those born before 1957, those who are certain they have already had the disease and those up-to-date on vaccines — one dose for children up to four years old and two doses for those four and older.
Learn more
Public Health has established a call center for questions about the investigation: (360) 397-8021. Hours are 9 am to 5 p.m. daily, including weekends. There is also a website: clark.wa.gov/public-health/measles-investigation.
Anyone with questions about measles infection or the measles vaccine should call their primary care provider or Clark County Public Health, (360) 397-8021.
