Measles

Measles is a disease that can spread very quickly and make some people severely ill.  One case was reported in Lancaster County on January 28.  The 21-day window for those people monitoring symptoms due to potential exposure is now over.  No new cases have been reported in Lancaster County at this time. 

Measles cases continue to rise nationally.  Check vaccination status to make sure you have protection against the disease.  

Those most at risk of getting measles are people who have no doses of measles, mumps, rubella vaccine (MMR) or who have not had the measles. Any adult or child who is unvaccinated and exposed to a positive measles case will need to stay home for 21 days.  

If you haven’t been exposed to measles and are not current on your MMR vaccine, talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about getting vaccinated as soon as possible. 

Residents can review vaccination records in the Nebraska State Immunization Information System or contact their health care provider if they have questions. If residents can’t locate vaccination records or only have one dose of the MMR vaccine, talk to a provider or pharmacist about next steps.  

Watch closely for signs and symptoms of measles including fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and sore throat followed by a rash. If you develop symptoms of measles, isolate yourself from others and call your health care provider, urgent care or nearest emergency room right away to discuss your symptoms and potential exposure before arriving. Do not go to a healthcare facility without giving advance notice.