Mountain State Times

The West Virginia Department of Health is actively monitoring the transmission of measles after the state's first confirmed case since 2009. Following this confirmation on Monday, health officials identified 152 individuals who were potentially exposed to the virus. This group includes 128 residents from 30 counties within West Virginia and 24 contacts from four neighboring states. Of those exposed in West Virginia, 62 individuals lack documented protection against measles and are considered at risk.

The Bureau for Public Health recommends that these individuals quarantine until May 9 or 10, depending on their last exposure date. The department is collaborating with the Monongalia County Health Department to ensure sufficient testing supplies and availability of the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) vaccine in Monongalia County.

State Health Officer Dr. Matthew Christiansen emphasized the importance of vaccination: “Measles is a serious disease that can cause severe symptoms especially in the most vulnerable kids and adults who are immunocompromised. The MMR vaccine is the best line of defense against measles.” He advises those uncertain about their immunity status to either get vaccinated or have a blood test through their healthcare provider.

In West Virginia, two doses of the measles vaccine are recommended, with the first dose between 12 and 15 months old and the second between four and six years old. This vaccination schedule is mandatory before entering kindergarten in the state. Adults born after 1956 should receive at least one dose unless they have other evidence of immunity. Healthcare personnel, college students, and international travelers are advised to have two appropriately spaced doses.

With increased travel expected during summer, it is crucial for families to ensure their vaccinations are current. MMR vaccines can be accessed through local healthcare providers and health departments across West Virginia.

For more information on locating a local health department or learning about MMR vaccines, visit https://dhhr.wv.gov/localhealth/pages/map.aspx or https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/vpd/mmr/public/index.html.