From The Trussville Tribune staff reports
ST. CLAIR COUNTY — The Alabama Department of Public Health has confirmed a case of measles in St. Clair County.
An infant under one year of age was diagnosed, according to the ADPH. The child had not been previously vaccinated (since it was not yet one year old — as recommended by the CDC, see below) and officials said the medical professional treating the child suggested the family stay home during the contagious stage, which was estimated from April 23 to May 1, 2019.
CDC recommends all children get two doses of MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, starting with the first dose at 12 through 15 months of age, and the second dose at four through six years of age. Children can receive the second dose earlier as long as it is at least 28 days after the first dose.
The ADPH is investigating the case and said it appears the medical practitioner took the correct steps in treating the patient and followed protocol to protect other patients.
Epidemiology staff with the ADPH is working with the family of the infant to ensure there were no additional exposures.
Health experts recommend everyone check with their doctor to make sure they do not need additional vaccinations to protect themselves from measles. Some vaccinated patients will need a booster to prevent becoming infected.
The Alabama Department of Public Health says measles is a serious viral respiratory illness that lives in the nose and throat mucus of infected people. A single case of measles will infect up to 95% of unvaccinated people who are exposed. One case is also expected to result in 12-18 additional cases.
The CDC provides information for patients and caregivers online.