The Hawaiʻi State Department of Health is on high alert after confirming a measles case in an Oʻahu child and a presumptive case in an adult, both potentially exposed during international travel, as reported on April 14th. Fortunately, the child has recovered, with no new suspected measles cases reported since April 14. Vigilance is key, with DOH reaching out to 88 of 92 individuals identified as having been exposed, most showing vaccination or immunity, yet, they remain proactive in monitoring the situation.
Despite their diligent efforts, the DOH acknowledges there may be individuals exposed in public spaces unknown to them, specifying that anyone present at certain areas of the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport during specified times in late March and early April could have been exposed, a run-on situation that adds another layer of concern for public health efforts. DOH is urging those at HNL’s C gates, customs and baggage claim on March 30 and Terminal 2 departures on April 4 to be aware of any signs of measles, with symptoms appearing up to 21 days post-exposure.
As the disease can start showing signs from 7 to 21 days after exposure, the DOH is asking anyone who may have been exposed and develops symptoms to self-isolate and immediately call their healthcare provider and DOH Disease Reporting Line at 808-586-4586 or the Disease Investigation Branch at 808-586-8362. The revealing of symptoms, all too familiar—a runny nose, cough, fever over 101 F, and a characteristic rash—are tell-tale and should prompt immediate action.
The DOH also strongly advises that if you have not been vaccinated or lack natural immunity, it's crucial to contact your healthcare provider for a dose of the MMR vaccine; this guidance applies to both children and adults, with two doses of MMR being the recommended standard especially for those in higher risk categories such as post-secondary students, international travelers, and healthcare personnel. Prioritization of vaccination is key to thwarting the spread of measles, which is noted for its remarkable contagiousness, an infected individual capable of transmitting the virus before and after the rash appears.
In terms of prevention, the DOH reiterated the importance of vaccination as the foremost defense against measles outbreaks. With no specific treatment for the virus, managing symptoms mainly involves sufficient fluid intake, bed rest, and fever management; although more severe cases with complications may warrant additional care. The community is urged to engage in protective measures by ensuring vaccination statuses are up to date, particularly for those vulnerable groups including immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and unvaccinated adults born after 1957.
