Confirmed Measles Case Reported in Stevens County; No Public Exposure Identified

Health officials have confirmed a case of measles in a Stevens County resident, according to the Northeast Tri-County Health District.

Officials said the individual followed public health guidance and took appropriate precautions, and as a result, no close contacts or public locations with potential community exposure have been identified.

Washington reported eight confirmed measles cases statewide as of last week. Local health officials emphasized that the risk to the general public in Stevens County remains low at this time.

Residents who believe they may have been exposed to measles, are experiencing symptoms, or have questions, are encouraged to contact the Stevens County health office at 509-684-2262 and select Option 1. Health officials said anyone seeking medical care who suspects they may have measles should call ahead before arriving at a clinic or hospital so proper infection control precautions can be taken.

Health officials noted that measles is a highly contagious viral illness, and the most effective protection is being up to date on the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccines. The National Institutes of Health stated that measles is an extremely contagious virus – far more so than COVID-19 or the flu – that can spread through the air, lingers in rooms for up to two hours, and can cause severe complications like pneumonia, brain swelling, permanent disability, or death, particularly in young children. Communities with lower vaccination rates face a higher risk of transmission, and measles cases have been increasing nationwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Residents who are unsure of their vaccination status or have questions about the MMR vaccine are encouraged to speak with their health care provider, health officials said. Vaccination records are also available through the state’s MyIR Mobile system at myirmobile.com.

For statewide updates on measles cases, including any identified public exposure locations, residents can visit the Washington State Department of Health’s measles information pages at wadoh.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/10e3b2b43f784eabbdb0a5873acd660d.