A case of measles, a highly contagious respiratory disease, was found in Lake County, according to Indiana Department of Health officials. This is the first case reported in Indiana since 2019.
“Measles is easily spread and can be serious, especially for young children. About one in five unvaccinated people in the United States who get measles is hospitalized, and 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed to measles will become sick,” said state Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver in a news release Monday. “This case is a good reminder that you are at risk if you haven’t been vaccinated.”
While IDOH officials said the case poses little public health risk, they still recommended that people get protection and immunity against measles because of its susceptibility to outbreaks.
Gary and Lake County residents can find free vaccination clinics Wednesday from 3-7pm. at the following locations:
- The Gary Health Department, 1145 W. Fifth Ave.
- The East Chicago Health Department, at 100 Chicago Ave.
- The Jean Shepherd Community Center, at 3031 J. F. Mahoney Drive, Hammond
Measles is spread through sneezing or cough droplets. The disease can survive on surfaces or in the air for up to two hours. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, and red eyes and typically appear within one to two weeks after exposure but can last up to three weeks. Measles can also cause tiny white spots, known as Koplik spots, inside the mouth, or a rash on the face, arms, hands, legs, and feet.
There have been 20 confirmed cases of measles in the U.S. this year, as of Feb. 15, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention.
Residents may call the IDOH information center at 1-800-382-1563 from 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday, with any questions.