Tag Archives: measles

884 measles cases confirmed across the United States; Michigan and Kent County health officials react to the arrival

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(Courtesy, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, MDHHS)



By Greg Chrapek
WKTV Contributor
greer@wktv.org


Health departments and health officials across Michigan and Kent County are transitioning from preparing for the arrival of measles to reacting to the arrival of the disease, which was once officially considered eliminated in the United States in the year 2000.

Measles began its comeback in the United States in February and early March in the Southwest United States, specifically New Mexico and West Texas. 

884 cases across the United States, 9 in Michigan

Since then, cases of measles have been spreading across the nation. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the latest numbers have shown an increase of cases with 30 states in the U.S. reporting cases. According to the CDC, a total of 884 cases are confirmed across the nation as of April 24. In the state of Michigan, as of April 24, there have been nine confirmed cases of measles according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). A total of four outbreak cases of the measles has been reported by the MDHHS with the outbreak located in Montcalm County in West Central Michigan. Locally, the first case of measles was reported in Kent County on April 1. The measles case in Kent County was the first reported in Kent County since 2013.

Along with measles, the state of Michigan has also seen an uptick in cases of pertussis, also known as whooping cough. In 2024 Michigan reported 2,081 cases of pertussis, a 19-fold increase from 2023 and the third consecutive annual rise. So far in 2025, the state has already reported nearly 700 pertussis cases, including 112 in infants under age 2, the age group most at risk for severe complications.  

“Measles is a highly contagious disease that continues to circulate both in the U.S. and globally,” said Dr. Adam London, Health Officer at the Kent County Health Department. “This case is a reminder of how quickly measles can spread and the importance of vaccination. We urge residents to check their immunization status, especially if planning to travel internationally or into areas with active measles outbreaks.”

On April 24, healthcare officials from around the state of Michigan convened for a conference call to address the state of measles in Michigan and discussed ways to address the issue and keep the public up to date on the situation.

One of the main points of emphasis by the panel, that included Michigan Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for the State of Michigan, was the need for vaccinations.

“These numbers are alarming, and this resurgence is preventable,” Dr. Bagdasarian said. “Diseases like measles and pertussis are highly contagious and potentially deadly, especially for infants and young children. We have safe, effective vaccines that protect against these illnesses – vaccines that have been available for decades. Let’s use all the tools at our disposal to protect our most vulnerable.”



(Courtesy, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, MDHHS)



Vaccine rates have been falling in recent years and that has enabled diseases like the measles and pertussis to mount a comeback.

According to the MDHHS, vaccination rates for young children in Michigan have declined over the past decade. As of March 2025, only 71.5% of Michigan children ages 19 to 35 months had received four or more DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) doses. MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine coverage for this age group was 79.4%. Only 68.4% of young children in Michigan have received all the vaccines recommended to protect them from 14 serious diseases by the time they’re 2-years old. Pertussis (whooping cough) often begins with mild cold-like symptoms, but progresses to severe coughing fits that can last for weeks. More than half of infants who get pertussis need to be hospitalized, and complications can include pneumonia, brain damage and death.

“Vaccination is not simply a personal choice, it is a public health responsibility that protects the entire community, particularly those at highest risk for serious health consequences,” said Dr. Rachel Klamo, a family physician and president of the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians. “We encounter vaccine-preventable illnesses daily and are seeing cases of once-rare diseases, such as measles, the consequences of which can be life-long and devastating. For physicians, this is heartbreaking because it is preventable.”

“Up-to-date vaccines are key in protecting children against measles”

Up-to-date vaccines are key in protecting children against measles which is easily spread. According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, measles is a disease caused by a virus. It is one of the world’s most contagious diseases. The MDHHS website also states that 90% of persons without immunity to measles will become ill after exposure to the virus. It also states that measles can live for up to two hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves an area.

The MMR vaccine, recommended starting at age 1, offers long-lasting protection against measles. Michigan’s recent outbreak was linked to a large, ongoing outbreak in Ontario, Canada.



(Image Courtesy, pxhere.com)



“Parents deserve accurate, science-based information about vaccines,” said Veronica Valentine McNally, president of the Franny Strong Foundation and founder of the I Vaccinate campaign. “When families are informed, they choose to protect their children. That’s why we created IVaccinate.org—to empower Michigan parents with the facts they need to make confident decisions.”

The I Vaccinate campaign is a nationally recognized joint initiative of the Franny Strong Foundation and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, supported by the CDC and every major health and medical organization in the state.”

Parents especially need to know that the DTaP vaccine is recommended at 2, 4 and 6 months, followed by boosters at 15-18 months and 4-to-6 years to protect against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. The MMR vaccine is recommended at 12-to-15 months and again at 4-to-6 years. The vaccines are available through pediatricians, most pharmacies and local health departments. Children eligible for the Vaccines for Children program can receive vaccines at no cost from enrolled providers.

“With vaccine-preventable diseases making a comeback in our state and across the country, this is not the time to let our guard down,” said Dr. Bagdasarian. “This is a good time to call your health care provider and make sure your family is up to date on vaccines.”

Kent County Health Department vigilant as measles cases show up across the country

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(Photo Courtesy, pxhere.com)



By Greg Chrapek
greer@wktv.org


A disease more associated with the 20th century is showing up across America this past winter and early spring, and while cases are rare in Michigan, the public needs to be aware that measles is making a comeback.

The measles disease was officially considered eliminated in the United State in the year 2000 due to the MMR vaccine and high vaccination rates, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The disease, which is particularly rough on children, began showing up in February and early March in the Southwest United States and specifically New Mexico and West Texas. 

As of March 28, 483 measles cases confirmed in U.S., one in Kent County

Since then, measles has been showing up across the nation, and according to the CDC, the latest numbers have shown an increase of cases with nearly half the states in the U.S. reporting cases. As of March 27, 2025, a total of 483 cases are confirmed across the nation. A total of 20 states have reported cases of measles, including Michigan. (CDC)


The first measles case in Michigan was confirmed in Oakland County (suburban Detroit) by the Michigan Health and Human Services Department (MHHSD). The CDC also has reported five outbreaks (defined as three or more related cases), across the country. A total of 14% of the cases have required hospitalization. The CDC also reports one confirmed death due to the measles and one other death under investigation. At the beginning of the month the CDC reported 164 confirmed cases.

As of April 2, there is one reported case in Kent County. Local health department officials are vigilant and monitoring the situation.


“We are monitoring measles activity statewide and nationally, and working with schools, healthcare providers and community partners to keep them informed about symptoms, testing protocols and reporting requirements,” said Christina Anthony, Communications Manager for Kent County overseeing the Health Department. “We also continue to raise awareness through our monthly newsletter and social media pages.”

According to the Michigan Health and Human Services Department, measles is a disease caused by a virus. It is one of the world’s most contagious diseases. The MHHSD website also states that 90% of persons without immunity to measles will become ill after exposure to the virus. It also states that measles can live for up to two hours in an airspace after an infected person leaves an area.

The MHHSD website also states the while some people think of measles as a rash and fever that clears up in a few days, the measles can actually cause serious health complications, especially in children younger than five years old.

While measles was considered eliminated in 2000, declining vaccination rates have opened the door for the disease to make a comeback, according to the CDC website. Health organizations across the country strongly recommend getting vaccinated to combat the disease.

Kent County residents can do their part to help prevent the spread of measles by taking some basic steps.

Residents are encouraged to ensure that their vaccinations are up to date with the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine. Residents should check their immunization record through the Michigan Immunization Portal to ensure they are up to date or contact their healthcare provider.

Residents also are encouraged to avoid contact with infected individuals as the measles are highly contagious. Staying away from people who are known to have measles is important. Good hygiene practices also help prevent the spread of measles. Frequent hand washing with soap and water and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing is stressed.

The CDC also has guidelines for when people should receive the MMR vaccine. For children, the CDC recommends they receive the first dose of MMR vaccine at 12 through 15 months of age and the second dose at four through six-years of age.

For adults, the CDC recommends that those who do not have evidence of immunity, namely those born in 1957 or later, get at least one dose of MMR vaccine. Adults at higher risk, such as healthcare workers or individuals traveling internationally, may need an additional dose. A healthcare provide can offer specific recommendations based on an individual’s risk factors.

The MMR vaccine also is recommended for people six months and older who are planning on international travel. There is no recommendation for MMR vaccination for domestic travel. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective, with two doses being about 97% effective at preventing measles. (CDC Website)


For more information, click here: Kent County Health Department.

Measles—an emerging travel trouble

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A big part of your checklist as you prepare for a trip overseas: Make sure you’re up to date on your measles vaccination. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay


Due to waning vaccination levels in some areas, measles outbreaks are back with a vengeance.


But many globe-trotting Americans may not realize the problem is worldwide. Therefore, making sure your measles vaccination is up to date is paramount before jetting off.


In fact, U.S. outbreaks of measles “are usually started by foreign travelers importing the virus to the U.S.,” according to Dr. Len Horovitz. He’s a specialist in pulmonary illnesses at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.


“This is exacerbated by lack of vaccination in many foreign countries,” Horovitz said. And according to a regularly updated list of measles “hotspots” from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “this is clearly a global epidemic,” he said.


“Asia, Africa and the Middle East lead the list, but in Europe the Ukraine and Romania have had reports of outbreaks,” Horovitz noted. “Also included on the outbreak list are Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, France, Bulgaria and Lithuania.”


Besides ruining a dream vacation, measles is very contagious and can be spread quickly to others, experts warn. And even if you think you got the shot in childhood, it’s smart to check and see if your immunity has waned, Horovitz said.


That’s especially true for some of the baby boomer generation.


“It’s well-known that vaccines between 1963 and 1967 were less effective and immunity can fade over the age of 50, even if you’ve had the disease,” Horovitz explained. “So one cannot assume immunity to measles, mumps or rubella in any adult.”


A simple blood test can gauge your immunity.


Horovitz said he’s been “testing patients for immunity in the last 10 weeks. All are adults and I’ve uncovered two or more patients each week who need booster vaccination. That’s 23 non-immune adults so far in a solo practice.”


According to Horovitz, one large commercial lab that tests for immunity to measles, mumps and rubella found that as many as 9%-13% of specimens lacked immunity to one or more of the three viruses.


So while getting kids vaccinated is crucial, “there’s also clear evidence that there is a significant number of non-immune adults in the U.S.,” Horovitz said.


Meanwhile, the measles situation in the United States continues to be dire.


“The 2018-2019 measles epidemic has been documented as one of the worst on record since 2000,” Horovitz said. “In April 2019, the CDC reported 695 cases in 22 states. The largest outbreaks were in Washington state and New York State.” He pointed out that 2018 saw a 300% increase in cases.


Some patients should not receive measles vaccination (including those with multiple sclerosis), so it’s better to assess a patient’s need for re-vaccination rather than just giving a booster to any patient requesting it or traveling to a country where measles is common, Horovitz said.


“A simple blood test with 24-hour turnaround time will reveal the immune status and need for vaccination. Patients who don’t require a booster should not be vaccinated, but a surprising number will require it,” he said.


Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.



School News Network: Health Department has one word for measles: vaccinate

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While the recent measles scare may be over, the issues for parents, schools and communities remain. (Supplied)

By Cris Greer
School News Network


With all the national and local news swirling about measles making a comeback in the United States, SNN spoke to the Kent County Health Department for some facts. Steve Kelso, marketing and communications manager for the Kent County Health Department, has one important tip.

“Get vaccinated,” Kelso said. “A lot of people think that measles is a harmless childhood disease. It is not. It can be deadly. I think a lot of people living today have never seen the impact of measles, diphtheria or polio and we tend to think of them as yesterday types of issues.”

From January 1 to June 6 this year, 1,022 individual cases of measles were confirmed in 28 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This is the greatest number of cases reported in the United States since 1994. Measles was declared eliminated in 2000.

Yet there were 44 confirmed cases in Michigan this year, all on the east side, mainly in Oakland County.

Many thanks to Kent County Health Department for sponsoring SNN

There are currently no cases in Kent County, but in early spring there was a visitor for a short period of time who was later diagnosed with measles. Exposure chances here were minimal. Those who may have come in contact with this visitor were notified.

“Some people are excluded (from vaccinations), some have legitimate medical contraindications, but almost everyone should be vaccinated,” Kelso said.

Mary Wisinski, immunization program supervisor for the Health Department, explained, “People who can’t get vaccinated due to illness or disease may have a more severe case of the disease. It is important to vaccinate those around them to protect the vulnerable from getting sick.”

Wisinski said if a child has a true medical condition that prevents him or her from getting a vaccination, the parents would need a medical waiver from the physician to meet Michigan school requirements. Any other reason means parents would need a waiver from the Health Department, which requires them to meet with a staff person to learn about vaccinations and voice their concerns. More information on non-medical waivers.

School Preparedness

Although measles cases were contained to the East side of the state, how should schools prepare in Kent County for the fall?

“Schools need to be aware of the vaccination status of all their students,” Wisinski said. “In the event of a vaccine-preventable disease in the school, the health department works with the individual school to verify the case, help with a parent letter if needed, and give advice about exclusion.

“Teachers and parents both want information on vaccine schedules, vaccine safety and signs and symptoms of the disease. Parents can get their questions answered from their health-care provider or the local Health Department.

“We work with schools to send information out to parents about vaccines during kindergarten roundup and end-of-the-year communications.”

Wisinski advised parents to make appointments for necessary vaccines sooner rather than later.

MMR Vaccine

The best protection against measles, according to the Health Department, is the MMR vaccine. This vaccine gives long-lasting protection against all strains of measles. For the best protection, a child needs two doses of MMR:

  • The first dose at 12 through 15 months of age
  • The second dose at 4 through 6 years
  • Infants traveling internationally should receive one dose if they are 6-11 months of age.



More information is available in these documents from the CDC: Measles Signs and Symptoms and Are You Protected?

The Kent County Health Department has the MMR vaccine available at all four of its clinic locations, by appointment only. For more info, call 616-632-7200 or contact your primary healthcare provider.

Visit AccessKent for more local and Michigan information.

For more stories on local schools, visit the School News Network at www.schoolnewsnetwork.org.

Vaccinations Aren’t Just for Kids

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Courtesy of Cherry Health

By Mary Menchinger, BS, RN-BC, Director of Nursing

 

There are several reasons people may need to be vaccinated against a disease as an adult:

  • They weren’t vaccinated as a child
  • The childhood vaccine may have worn off
  • The vaccine isn’t needed until later in life
  • The vaccine changes on a regular basis

Influenza (Flu)

Different strains of flu affect people every year. That’s one reason you need to get a flu shot annually. Each year the vaccine is designed to protect against the types of influenza virus expected to be most common. Getting a flu shot helps keep you healthy during the flu season which can start as early as September and last through May.

 

Tetanus

Tdap is a vaccine that protects against:

  • Tetanus
  • Diphtheria
  • Pertussis

Most people are vaccinated against these diseases in childhood. However, the protection can wear off.

 

Varicella (Chickenpox)

If you never had chickenpox as a child you may want to get the varicella vaccine. Chickenpox can be a serious illness in adults. Talk to your provider to see if it is a good choice for you.

 

MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)

If you were born in 1957 or later you need at least one dose of this vaccine. Consult with your provider to determine if you need to get an adult MMR.

 

Pneumococcal

All adults over 65 are strongly urged to get this vaccine. It is also recommended for adults under age 65 with certain health conditions:

  • Long-term health problems
  • Compromised immune system
  • Asthma
  • A history of smoking

Hepatitis vaccines

Vaccine are available to protect people against hepatitis A and hepatitis B. These vaccines are generally offered to adults who work or live with high risk individuals.

 

Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

According to the Centers for Disease control and Prevention (CDC), one in every three Americans will develop shingles. Shingles is caused by a return of the virus that causes chickenpox. The one-time vaccine is recommended for adults over age 60. You should get the shot even if you had chickenpox as a child.

 

Talk to your provider to make sure you are up-to-date on the vaccines that are right for you. At a minimum, almost everyone needs a flu vaccine once a year. 

 

Getting immunized is a lifelong, life-protecting job.

 

Reprinted with permission from Cherry Health.

For school kids, vaccines are key

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The best way to treat diseases is to prevent them in the first place. (Courtesy Spectrum Health Beat)

By Robert Preidt, HealthDay

 

Be sure to put vaccinations on your children’s back-to-school lists, whether they’re just starting school or heading off to college, experts say.

 

By protecting infants, children and teens from serious diseases, vaccinations also protect families, schools and communities.

 

“The best way to treat diseases is to prevent them in the first place, and the diseases on the vaccine schedule are all preventable for the vast majority of our population,” said David Kimberlin, vice chair of pediatrics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

 

“The scientific evidence and public health statistics are comprehensive and compelling—properly scheduled and dosed vaccines are safe and effective, and they’re the reason we don’t see diseases like measles or whooping cough running rampant across our country,” Kimberlin said in a university news release.

 

Kimberlin is the American Academy of Pediatrics’ liaison to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s advisory committee on immunization practices.

 

Immunization requirements vary by state. All have a minimum requirement for dosing each school year to attend public schools. Many require an updated immunization certificate before a child enters any public school or child care center.

 

Here’s what else you should know:

  • All 50 states and the District of Columbia require vaccinations for diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, polio, measles and rubella.
  • 49 states and D.C. also require mumps vaccination.
  • 48 states and D.C. require varicella (chickenpox) vaccination. (Montana and Pennsylvania do not).
  • 45 states and D.C. require hepatitis B vaccination to enter kindergarten. (Alabama, Maine, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota do not).
  • Some states require Hib (Haemophilus Influenzae Type b); PCV (pneumococcal); flu and hepatitits A vaccines to enter kindergarten.

Insurance covers school vaccinations. If you don’t have insurance, your state health department can direct you to services that offer low-cost and/or free immunizations, said Dr. Rachael Lee, an assistant professor in the university’s division of infectious diseases.

 

Vaccinations are available at doctor offices, pharmacies, health centers and local health departments.

 

College students require specific vaccinations and should check with their school to learn which ones they need, university experts said.

 

Life-threatening infections such as meningococcal disease are more common among college-age people, but can be prevented through full vaccination, the experts said.

 

Reprinted with permission from Spectrum Health Beat.