Confirmed: Measles Detected in Natrona County
In a concerning turn of events, the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated child from Natrona County, marking the first reported instance of the disease in the state since 2010 [1][2][3]. The source of the child's measles exposure remains unidentified.
Dr. Alexia Harrist, the state health officer with WDH, has issued guidance following this development. She emphasises the safety and effectiveness of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, stating that it provides long-lasting protection against measles.
Individuals who were potentially exposed to measles at Banner Wyoming Medical Center Emergency Department in Casper during the specified dates (June 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and June 25 from 12:55 p.m. to 2:55 p.m.) are being notified by the WDH. Self-monitoring for measles symptoms for 21 days after the last possible exposure date is critical, as symptoms can take up to three weeks to develop after exposure.
Measles is a highly contagious infection that can cause severe illness. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and a characteristic rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body. The child was briefly in the waiting room at Banner Wyoming Medical Center Emergency Department.
Infants less than 1 year old, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for infection and severe disease from measles. Therefore, the WDH recommends that all Wyoming residents ensure they and their children are up to date on MMR vaccinations.
Unvaccinated individuals or those unsure of their immunity should talk to their healthcare provider about receiving the MMR vaccine. Booster doses are not necessary for persons who are fully vaccinated against measles. If additional cases occur, the MMR vaccine, given within 72 hours after exposure, can prevent infection.
The hospital has initiated protocols for staff exposure and is maintaining frequent communication with infectious disease specialists to manage follow-up and containment measures effectively. The WDH and Banner Wyoming Medical Center are actively working to notify individuals who may have been exposed during those times.
To prevent possible further spread of the infection, individuals are advised to consider avoiding crowded public places and high-risk settings such as daycare centers.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of vaccination in maintaining public health. The WDH urges all Wyoming residents to ensure they and their children are up to date on MMR vaccinations to protect themselves and others from this highly contagious disease.
[1] Wyoming Department of Health, Press Release, [Link to Press Release] [2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Measles: Case Counts and Outbreak Information, [Link to CDC Page] [3] World Health Organization, Measles, [Link to WHO Page]
- To maintain optimal health and wellness, the Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) recommends that all residents ensure they and their children are up to date on the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, especially in light of the recent diagnosis of measles in a child from Natrona County.
- Given the highly contagious nature of measles, individuals who were potentially exposed to the disease at Banner Wyoming Medical Center Emergency Department in Casper are being advised to monitor their health for 21 days after the last possible exposure date, as symptoms can take up to three weeks to develop.
- Beyond measles, it's crucial to address overall fitness and exercise, as well as mental health, to achieve comprehensive health and wellness. Regular physical activity helps improve cardiovascular health, boosts mood, and reduces stress levels, while mental health resources can provide support during challenging times.
