.jpg)
PENDER — Northeast Nebraska Public Health Department is responding to the recent increase in measles cases reported in Texas and New Mexico. Because of the highly contagious and possible severity of measles, every community should remain informed and prepared. NNPHD is actively monitoring the situation and urging all residents to review their immunization status and take proactive measures to protect themselves and their families.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that primarily affects the respiratory system. The disease is characterized by a range of symptoms that typically appear 7 to 14 days after exposure to the virus.
Initial symptoms include: • High Fever: Often one of the first signs, with temperatures that can spike rapidly. • Cough: A persistent, dry cough is common. • Runny Nose: Nasal congestion and a runny nose frequently accompany other symptoms. • Red, Watery Eyes (Conjunctivitis): The eyes may become sensitive to light and appear red. • Rash: A red, blotchy rash usually develops on the face and then spreads downward to cover the rest of the body.
In some cases, small white spots known as Koplik spots may appear inside the mouth before the rash develops. Due to its contagious nature, measles can lead to serious complications, particularly in young children and individuals with weakened immune systems.
To ensure protection against measles, the following immunization schedule is recommended: • First Dose: Administered at 12 to 15 months of age • Second Dose: Administered at 4 to 6 years of age For adolescents and adults without documented evidence of immunity, a catch-up vaccination is advised. Staying current with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is the most effective way to prevent measles and its potentially serious complications.
People who received a measles vaccine in the 1960s may need a dose of the MMR vaccine. This is because some measles vaccines given in the 1960s were not as effective as the current vaccine.
Call your local vaccine provider or NNPHD at 402-375-2200 for questions regarding immunizations.
Residents are encouraged to: • Verify Vaccination Status: Review personal and family immunization records. • Call Ahead to Seek Medical Advice: Consult healthcare providers if exposure to measles is suspected or if symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, and rash occur. Please call ahead before a visit to any healthcare provider so that infection control measures can be put in place.
• Stay Informed: Follow updates from NNPHD for any further notices or changes to public health recommendations.
Recent reports from Texas and New Mexico indicate a rise in confirmed measles cases, underscoring the need for continuous attention to vaccination efforts. Health officials are managing the situation carefully, and thisnotice serves as a reminder of the importance of staying current with immunizations.
At the time of this release, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services, there are 90 confirmed cases of measles, with 16 people hospitalized. Roughly 95% of cases are unvaccinated, or vaccination status unknown. Most confirmed cases are under the age of 18.
NNPHD remains committed to closely monitoring the situation and providing timely public health information to ensure the well-being of the communities we serve.
