UPDATE — Montana's Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) and the Gallatin City-County Health Department (GCCHD) have confirmed five cases of measles in Gallatin County.
According to a DPHHS press release, they are Montana’s first cases of measles since 1990 and are in children and adults who were exposed to measles while traveling outside of Montana. The individuals reside in Gallatin County and are isolating at home.
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The release says all five individuals are unvaccinated, or their vaccine status is unknown. GCCHD is assessing any potential exposures and contacting those who may have been exposed.
GCCHD has listed potential points of exposure on its website and will continue to update the list as needed or more information becomes available.
According to the release, measles, a highly infectious airborne disease, can spread before people know they have it and before any rash appears. Those without prior infection or vaccination have a 90% likelihood of contracting measles if exposed.
If you are unsure of your vaccination status, health officials recommend these steps:
- Call your old high school, college, or university and ask if they have vaccination records.
- Contact your doctor’s office, urgent care, or pediatrician. Even if you have not been there in years, they may still have records.
- Reach out to the health department where you grew up.
- Check your home state immunization registries.
The release says measles typically begins with a fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, white spots in the mouth, and a red rash that appears about 14 days after exposure.
Health officials recommend vaccination as the best way to protect against measles. Anyone seeking vaccination is urged to call your primary care physician as soon as possible, or schedule an appointment with GCCHD for the MMR vaccine by calling 406-582-3100.
(First report)
BOZEMAN — The Gallatin City-County Health Department (GCCHD) says it has been notified of a possible measles case in Gallatin County.
GCCHD said in an email to MTN News the department is "actively investigating and will provide information to the public as soon as possible."
According to the email, GCCHD is currently contacting anyone who may have been exposed and providing help as needed.
The health department says appointments to receive vaccine against the measles are available by calling 406-582-3100.
No further information is currently available. We will keep you updated as we learn more.
