A Deadly and Preventable Virus is Making a Resurgence in Michigan

A highly contagious but preventable disease is rearing its ugly head in Michigan yet again.

Many diseases and viruses make their way through Michigan, but possibly none as deadly or preventable as measles. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has reported its sixth measles case this year.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Reports More Cases of Measles

The case hails from Southeast Michigan, dated at the beginning of July.

Michigan isn't the only state that has had issues with measles cases cropping up this year. "As of July 11^th, a total of 167 measles cases were reported by 24 jurisdictions: Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York City, New York State, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin."

Get our free mobile app

Measles are very serious, but also very preventable. They can be prevented with the MMR vaccine, which also protects from mumps and rubella. Anyone who isn't vaccinated against measles is at risk. So the best thing you can do to protect your health and the health of others is to get vaccinated.

Symptoms of Measles

If you're concerned that you might have been exposed to measles, here are the symptoms you need to look out for:

• High fever, even in excess of 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Cough
• Runny nose
• Red and watery eyes
• Red, splotchy rash

The World Health Organization (WHO) says that "measles is a highly contagious, serious airborne disease caused by a virus that can lead to severe complications and death." So take the steps necessary to stay safe.