Marathon County Health Department. Image courtesy: WAOW TV
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Marathon County Health Department confirms two additional measles cases, bringing the number of known cases in the county to three.
Officials say the two new cases do not indicate public exposure is occurring in the county. They are monitoring the situation and following up when needed.
The first measles case was reported on September 15th in a person who traveled outside of Wisconsin. Health officials note that the continued spread of the disease in Wisconsin indicates “exposure is occurring within the state,” and since not everyone with symptoms will get tested, there are likely more cases out there.
Chippewa County reported a case earlier this week. A widespread outbreak in Southwest Wisconsin has brought more than 100 cases. More than 99% of cases have occurred in those who aren’t vaccinated; five cases have required hospitalization.
Measles is a highly contagious disease that can be spread from person to person through the air and can stay in the air for two hours after a sick person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms of measles include:
- Runny nose
- High fever (may be greater than 104°F)
- Tiredness
- Cough
- Red, watery eyes, or conjunctivitis
- A red rash with raised bumps that starts at the hairline and moves to the arms and legs three to five days after symptoms begin
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