Panhandle Health District has reported a probable case of measles in Kootenai County, Idaho as of Friday, February 3rd.
Measles (rubeola) is a highly contagious viral infection spread through respiratory droplets and is characterized by rash, spiking fevers to 104 degrees, red eyes, runny nose, cough, sensitivity to light, swollen glands and characteristic sores in the mouth (Koplik’s spots). The incubation period is typically about 10 days, and patients with measles can infect others from one day prior to 4 days after the onset of symptoms. The rash typically starts on the head and face and then spreads to the trunk, arms and legs. Symptoms last about 7 days, and the rash fades in the same order that it appeared.
See your physician immediately if you think you have been exposed to measles or if you or a family member has any of these symptoms. There is currently no specific treatment for the disease, other than supportive care such as controlling fever and cough. Preventing spread to others is critical, as epidemics have occurred in the past. Immunization with the MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) vaccine is important in both protecting the individual and the public at large….Richard R Samuel, MD Family Practice and Urgent Care Hayden, ID USA
