Press Release: Investigation into Measles Case in Lee County, Alabama
Lee County, Alabama – The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has launched an investigation following the identification of a suspected measles case involving an individual not yet eligible for vaccination. This case prompts renewed attention to the importance of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine, which is recommended for children between 12 and 15 months old.
Dr. Karen Landers, ADPH Chief Medical Officer and pediatrician, emphasized the safety and effectiveness of the MMR vaccine in providing lifelong immunity against measles, a disease that can have severe health repercussions. "Our citizens can protect themselves and others by ensuring that all eligible persons are vaccinated,” she stated.
Despite an overall low risk for an outbreak due to high vaccination rates among eligible Alabamians, ADPH is actively working with local healthcare providers to identify other unvaccinated individuals who may require the MMR vaccine as part of this investigation.
The urgency of this investigation comes as the nation faces the largest surge in measles in years, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting 1,168 confirmed cases across 34 jurisdictions already this year. Among those affected, 137 were hospitalized, and three fatalities were reported, predominantly among unvaccinated individuals.
Historically, Alabama has seen no measles cases in the past two years, with its last outbreak likely dating back to 2002. In light of declining vaccination rates among school-aged children, health officials warn of the potential for a resurgence of this highly contagious disease.
For resources and more information, ADPH encourages the public and healthcare providers to visit its dedicated measles webpage, while the CDC maintains an up-to-date online dashboard regarding measles cases nationwide.
For further information, please contact the Alabama Department of Public Health.
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