First Measles Case Confirmed in Coconino County, Vaccine Urged

First Measles Case of the Year Confirmed in Coconino County

Coconino County Health and Human Services has identified the first measles case in the county this year. The individual, a resident of the county, was diagnosed in Page, prompting health officials to take immediate action.

Authorities are in the process of informing individuals who may have encountered the patient at specific locations earlier this month. They advise those potentially exposed to monitor for symptoms over the next three weeks. The places and times of concern include:

– Page High School (434 S. Lake Powell Blvd.) on Thursday, March 12 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:40 p.m.

– Safeway (650 Elm St.) on Thursday, March 12 from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

– Banner Page Hospital (501 N. Navajo Road) on Monday, March 16 from 12:40 to 5:20 p.m.

Measles is characterized by a high fever exceeding 101 degrees, accompanied by a cough, fatigue, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads downward. For more information, visit the CDC’s website.

Individuals displaying symptoms are advised to self-isolate and contact a healthcare provider promptly. Those without a regular healthcare provider should reach out to urgent care or a hospital.

To guard against measles, healthcare professionals recommend two doses of the MMR vaccine, which also protects against mumps and rubella. The initial dose is typically administered between 12 to 15 months of age, followed by a second dose between 4 to 6 years. Health authorities emphasize the importance of adolescents and adults keeping their MMR vaccinations current.

The Coconino County Health and Human Services Wellness Clinic is available for vaccine appointments at (928) 679-7222.

Amid these developments, international health officials are set to convene in the coming months to assess whether the United States can maintain its measles-free status. There is growing concern that the virus, once eliminated, is making a comeback, potentially leading the U.S. to follow Canada’s recent loss of this status.