The Hawaiʻi Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a second infection of measles within the household of a child who was previously reported to have the disease on April 7. The new case has affected an adult member of the family, who had shown symptoms and was presumed to be infected. Both the child and adult had recently traveled internationally.
Confirmation of the adult's measles infection came on April 16 after an antibody test was performed. The test results took longer to process due to the delay between the onset of symptoms and the collection of the test specimen. The health department had already initiated an investigation into possible exposures at the point when the case was still presumed. As noted, the adult is no longer contagious, and the child has made a full recovery.
Currently, as of April 17, no new suspected cases of measles have been identified. Nevertheless, the DOH remains vigilant, continuing its efforts to contact those who might have been exposed to the virus.
Measles remains one of the most infectious viruses globally, easily spreading through direct contact or through the air via coughs and sneezes from an infected individual.
Vaccination with the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is emphasized as the most effective prevention method. The DOH advises individuals who are unvaccinated or lack immunity to consult with healthcare providers regarding vaccination.