Brownwood/Brown County Health Department officials released the following information regarding Measles and the spread of the disease:

Due to the present increase in measles cases across the U.S. and the risk measles pose to the health of the community, it is important for citizens to be aware of the facts concerning measles.

Measles is a highly contagious respiratory illness spread by contact with an infected person through coughing and sneezing. Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, 90 percent of the people close to that person who are not immune or vaccinated will also become infected with the measles virus.

The incubation period of measles is about two weeks from exposure to onset of rash. People are contagious from four days before onset of rash to four days after the appearance of rash. The rash usually begins on the face and spreads to the trunk. Other symptoms include fever (higher than 101 degrees), cough, runny nose, and sore eyes.

People who have measles or are suspected of having measles should call their doctor’s office or healthcare facility first before seeking medical attention and otherwise stay home until four days after the rash appeared.

Health officials urge immunization to protect against and prevent the spread of measles. People born before 1957 are usually considered immune and protected from measles. People who have had two measles vaccinations (such as two MMR vaccines) are also considered immune and protected from measles. People should check their immunization status with their health care provider.

For more information on measles and vaccination, contact the Brownwood/Brown County Health Department at 325-646-0554.