For the first time since the Disneyland measles outbreak was first reported by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in early January, health officials reported no new measles cases in the state.
According to a CDPH update Mar. 20, since December, 2014, there have been 133 confirmed measles cases reported in California residents. No new confirmed cases have been reported to CDPH since the publication of the last report on March 13, 2015
Does this mean the outbreak in the Golden State is over? Not quite yet.
CDPH officials say the outbreak will be considered over when 42 days have elapsed from the end of the infectious period of the last known B3 measles cases that was a not a new importation. As of today (Mar. 20), that date will be April 17, 2015.
The national measles outbreak data from the CDC as of Mar. 13 shows 176 people from 17 states and the District of Columbia were reported to have measles.
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It is widespread in many parts of the world, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. Measles begins with a fever that lasts for a couple of days, followed by a cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis (pink eye), and a rash. The rash typically appears first on the face, along the hairline, and behind the ears and then affects the rest of the body. Infected people are usually contagious from about 4 days before their rash starts to 4 days afterwards.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends two doses of the MMR vaccine for prevention: the first at 12 months of age, and the second between ages 4 – 6.
Related: California pertussis cases top 10,000 for 2014
Complications from measles are more common in children younger than 5 years old and adults 20 years and older. Complications can include diarrhea, ear infection and pneumonia. Death can occur from severecomplications and the risk is higher among younger children and adults. There is no treatment for measles. Bed rest, fluids and fever control are recommended. People with complications may need treatment for their specific problem.
