Measles detected in Sanilac County
The Sanilac County Health Department confirmed a case of measles in a resident, the first case of the disease to be identified in years. According to an Oct. 29 news release, the health department is working with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to investigate where the individual might have caught the disease and possible points of exposure in the community. “Although measles has been uncommon in Sanilac County for many years, this case reminds us of the importance of remaining informed and taking preventive measures,” Sanilac County Health Officer Bryant Wilke said in the news release. “Our goal is to provide residents with accurate information, encourage awareness, and help families take appropriate steps to protect themselves and others.” Measles is an airborne illness that is highly contagious and causes high fever, runny nose, watery eyes and a rash that begins at the face and spreads downward. The disease is particularly dangerous to those with weakened immune systems, including children, infants and pregnant individuals. According to the Center for Disease Control, before the discovery of a measles vaccine in 1963, almost every child in the United States had measles before they were 15 years old, resulting in an
