WYOMING — A case of measles has been confirmed in a Fremont County adult, marking the first confirmed case in the state this year.
The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) made the announcement on Friday, noting that the infected adult was of “unconfirmed vaccination status.” Last year, the state saw a total of 15 cases, the first appearance of measles in the state since 2010.
The agency noted that members of the public could have been exposed to infection at the following locations, since the measles virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infectious individual leaves an area:
- Walmart Supercenter, 1733 N Federal Blvd, Riverton, WY 82501
Friday, April 24, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. - Maverik, 819 E. Coulter Ave, Powell, WY 82435
Saturday, April 25, from 10:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
“We are asking individuals who were potentially exposed to self-monitor for measles symptoms for 21 days past the exposure date, and consider avoiding crowded public places or high-risk settings such as daycare centers,” said WDH State Health Officer Dr. Alexia Harrist.
The highly contagious virus can cause serious illnesses including pneumonia and encephalitis, which can lead to hospitalization and death. Symptoms of measles include fever, cough, runny nose, red or watery eyes and a rash that starts on the face and spreads down the body. People who get sick with these symptoms should call their healthcare provider for guidance. Infants, non-immune pregnant women and immunocompromised people are at the highest risk.
WDH notes that people who have received the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine — or were born before 1957 — are generally considered immune and are unlikely to develop measles.
“Measles is one of the most contagious diseases we know, but it is preventable,” said Dr. Harrist. “The MMR vaccine is safe and highly effective, providing long-lasting protection. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effective in preventing measles, and we recommend that all Wyoming residents ensure they and their children are up to date on MMR vaccinations.”
For more information on measles, including guidance on what to do if exposed, visit the WDH website. As more information becomes available, WDH will post locations of potential exposure, if any, and updated case counts.
