Measles case reported in child in southeast Idaho, health officials investigating possible infection | Idaho

BOISE – The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare has reported a case of measles in a child from southeast Idaho. The child, an international traveler, was not vaccinated against measles and was evaluated by medical personnel because of symptoms. The child was not hospitalized and the case investigation is ongoing.

The child, who was infectious between August 7 and August 16, traveled through several states, including Wyoming and southeast Idaho. Southeastern Idaho Public Health is working with the health care facilities the child visited to identify potentially exposed staff and visitors.

Due to incomplete travel histories, health authorities advise that some of the people who may have been infected have not yet been identified. People who suspect they have come into contact with someone who has measles are urged to contact their health care provider and monitor for symptoms for 21 days after possible infection. Authorities will monitor those known to have come into contact with the child.

“Symptoms of measles include fever, runny nose, cough and rash,” said Dr. Christine Hahn, medical director of the Division of Public Health at the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. “Although measles is usually considered a childhood disease, adults can also get it if they are not immune.”

Measles can lead to serious complications, including encephalitis, pneumonia and, in rare cases, death. There is no specific treatment for the virus and people with symptoms are advised to contact their doctor and not to visit clinics or other health facilities without prior appointment. This allows the facility to prepare and minimise the risk of spreading the virus.

The best protection against measles is vaccination. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine is available at many pharmacies and doctor's offices. Children should receive their first dose of vaccine between 12 and 15 months of age, followed by a booster dose between 4 and 6 years of age. In some cases, the MMR vaccine may be recommended for children as young as 6 months of age, especially for international travelers or people at risk during an outbreak.

For more information about measles, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website at