MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Another case of measles has been reported in the Upper Peninsula, this time in Ontonagon County.
The Western Upper Peninsula Health Department has confirmed a case of measles in a Marquette county resident that is currently visiting family in Ontonagon county. This is the second confirmed case of the disease in the up, with the first case reported in Marquette yesterday. Marquette county director of public health, dr. Robert van howe, says the disease can linger in the air for up to 2 hours, and the symptoms can be severe.
“The first symptoms that show up are a cough, runny nose, goopy eyes, like with conjunctivitis and a fever. Those usually happen about four days before the rash breaks up, so you’re contagious from when you start with symptoms. So you’re contagious about four days before the rash starts,” explained Van-Howe.
Dr. Van Howe says the best way to prevent measles is to get vaccinated.
If you believe you have been exposed to measles or exhibit symptoms, contact your doctor or local health department.
