The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced on Apr. 2 that it is recommending early measles vaccinations for infants in several counties due to concerns about possible community transmission. The announcement follows the identification of seven measles cases in Washtenaw County and an eighth case confirmed in Monroe County, which has not been directly linked to the other cases or travel.
The department said this action is important because measles can spread quickly before symptoms appear, making it challenging to contain outbreaks. Infants ages 6 through 11 months living in Washtenaw, Monroe, Wayne, Oakland, Jackson, Livingston or Lenawee counties—or those who travel to Washtenaw and Monroe counties—are now advised to receive an accelerated first dose of the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine.
“Measles is incredibly transmissible and we are now seeing possible spread outside the initial outbreak in Washtenaw County,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Because people with measles can transmit the virus before they experience symptoms, we want to make sure we are protecting the most vulnerable members of our communities by recommending early vaccination for infants ages 6 through 11 months. The MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine remains our best defense, and two doses offers 97% protection against measles.”
Bagdasarian also said that all individuals without evidence of immunity should get vaccinated as soon as possible. The new recommendation will remain effective until Saturday, May 16—two incubation periods after the last known infectious period—and updates will be posted on the MDHHS website.
Routine MMR vaccination typically begins at age one; however, children who receive an accelerated dose between six and eleven months will still need two additional doses after their first birthday to complete protection. Adults who received a less-effective version between 1963-1967 or only one dose before 1989 may be eligible for another dose.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that spreads through direct contact or airborne droplets before symptoms appear. Symptoms include high fever over 104°F, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (red eyes), white spots inside the mouth (Koplik Spots), and a spreading rash beginning at the hairline.
Vaccines are available at doctors’ offices, most pharmacies and local health departments. Children eligible for Michigan’s Vaccines for Children program can receive no-cost vaccination from participating providers.
