Measles Scare in New Mexico
A New Mexico resident returning home from London created news headlines recently when it was confirmed she had measles while traveling, possibly exposing travelers in three airports. While the US Centers for Disease Control track those she came in contact with, doctors urge continued immunizations against the illness. “The measles virus continues to be a big problem in developing countries, and is one of the most highly contagious viruses,” said Dr Francine Olmstead, a pandemic disease consultant and the Medical Director at NM Travel Health, www.nmtravelhealth.com.
What is Measles?
Measles is one of the most contagious viral diseases. Worldwide, it’s estimated that 43 million cases of measles occur, resulting in more than one
million deaths. In the United States, about 350 cases occur, most as a result of exposure outside
the United States. Those immunized in childhood are generally well-protected against the virus. Measles Fact Sheet.
Why the worry?
Measles is a highly contagious disease, and about 90% of non-immunized persons will develop measles if they live in the same house as someone who has the disease. The measles virus can be spread to other people from airborne droplets of fluid from the nose or mouth. People with measles are usually contagious from about 5 days after exposure to about 5 days after the rash appears.
How is it transmitted?
“Measles is spread from any contact with an infected person, including coughing and sneezing,” said Olmstead, “so you can imagine the concern about this virus and the exposure to others in the closed environment of an airplane. This is a virus that can live for several hours after the person leaves the area.”
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose and a red rash. Other symptoms include diarrhea and ear infections. Measles is a virus so it’s not treated with antibiotics. Often, the disease must run its course, however, many individuals who contract measles require hospitalization. Complications are usually more severe among infants, individuals with weakened immune systems and adults who catch the virus. Pneumonia, swelling of the brain and even death can be a result from measles.
Treatment and what to do
“If an individual has had two doses of the MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine, or if they were born before 1957 and diagnosed with measles as a child, they would be considered immune. But those who are uncertain or do not have documentation of the vaccine should consider a blood test to test for immunity to measles or receive the MMR vaccine,” said Dr. Olmstead. “This is especially important for anyone who will be traveling overseas, particularly to high-risk areas around the world.” If you suspect that you or your child has measles, then contact your doctor as soon as possible to avoid the risk of developing complications or spreading the disease. Adults contact your primary care provider, Public health office www.nmhealth.org, NM Travel Health www.nmtravelhealth.com or call 505-217-0628.
Olmstead, a 1997 graduate of the University of New Mexico School of Medicine, is a specialist in travel health and one of just a few thousand medical providers worldwide to have earned the Certificate of Knowledge in Travel Health, administered by the International Society of Travel Medicine. She is also Board Certified in Internal Medicine.
Background: Dr. Francine Olmstead earned her MD from the University of New Mexico School of Medicine in 1997. Since 2001, Dr. Olmstead has sub-specialized in International Travel Medicine. She has been providing consultative services to patients, medical professionals and companies regarding International Travel Health and Pandemic Planning and Awareness Education. She is the President and Medical Director for NM Travel Health, a division of Olmstead Health Care Services, LLC, with offices in Albuquerque and Farmington. Dr. Olmstead is also board certified in Internal Medicine. www.nmtravelhealth.com