The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) State Laboratories Division has confirmed a case of measles in an unvaccinated child under the age of five on Oʻahu. The DOH is conducting an investigation to identify individuals who may have been exposed and is implementing measures to prevent further transmission of the disease.
According to the health department, the child developed symptoms such as a fever, runny nose, and cough shortly after returning from international travel with their parents. Medical attention was sought following the appearance of a rash, and the child is currently recovering at home. Another family member with similar symptoms is undergoing evaluation for a potential measles infection.
The public may have been exposed to measles if present at specific locations during certain times, including the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and Mānoa Valley District Park. The DOH has issued notifications to relevant airlines and airports through which the suspected cases traveled. The DOH is also directly reaching out to individuals with known contact with the confirmed or suspected case.
In the event of exposure, individuals who have not been vaccinated are advised to immediately contact their healthcare provider for possible preventative measures. Those exposed are encouraged to remain vigilant and isolate themselves upon noticing symptoms. Anyone with an immunocompromising condition should seek advice from their healthcare provider.
The DOH clarified that individuals with a full course of vaccination or those born before 1957 are generally protected. Those with one dose of a measles-containing vaccine may contact their healthcare provider for a second dose to achieve complete immunity.
Measles spreads through direct contact with an infected person or via airborne transmission when an infected individual coughs or sneezes. Symptoms typically emerge seven to 14 days post-exposure and include fever, runny nose, red eyes, and a cough, with a rash developing three to five days after initial symptoms.
As a preventive measure, the DOH advises the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine for children and adults, particularly those planning international travel. Immediate action is recommended for those exposed to measles who are unprotected, with the MMR vaccine and immune globulin as preventive options.
There is no specific treatment for measles, but care includes proper fluids, rest, and fever management. Complications may necessitate additional medical intervention.
For more information, the DOH advises consulting various resources such as its measles information website, the CDC measles website, and MMR vaccine factsheets.