ATLANTA — The state's health agency has confirmed three cases of measles in the metro Atlanta area -- all linked to one family.
According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, two of the cases were confirmed back on Jan. 13. The third case was confirmed nearly two weeks later, on Jan. 26. Outside of the family, the agency said there were no other cases of measles.
According to the health agency, the highly-contagious illness is caused by a virus, but is preventable by an MMR vaccine. Measles is spread via air-borne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose or watery eyes. After two or three days, the fever peaks and a rash appears near the hairline and spreads downward -- until it reaches the face, neck, torso and extremities.
The DPH is now asking for healthcare providers to be on high alert for any patients that are showing signs of the measles. Additionally, the agency said it has notified anyone who may have come in contact with the virus and is at increased risk for developing the illness.
Meanwhile, anyone who contracts the measles or thinks they may have been exposed is urged to:
- Contact their healthcare provider immediately and let them know that they may have been exposed to measles. If they do not have a doctor, they should call the GA Department of Public Health at 404-657-2588.
- NOT go to the doctor’s office, the hospital, or a public health clinic without FIRST calling to let them know about their possible contact with measles. A healthcare provider or public health nurse will advise about what to do.
- If the patient thinks they might have measles, they are urged to stay at home and avoid contact with other people, especially babies less than 1 year of age or people with weakened immune systems.
- Healthcare providers who suspect measles should notify public health immediately.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that all people be routinely vaccinated between 12 and 18 months of age and receive a booster between 4 and 6 years of age.
There have been six cases of measles confirmed in Georgia since 2005.