Measles Information

Public health officials across Michigan continue to monitor an increasing number of measles cases in the Southeast part of the state. While there are no current cases in Kent County, the Kent County Health Department (KCHD) is urging vaccination against the disease to those who are not vaccinated or otherwise immune to Measles.

Measles is a very contagious disease that can have lifelong health complications. Measles is spread through the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes. The virus can live for up to two hours in the air. Measles is so contagious that if one person has it, up to 90% of the people close to that person will also get the disease unless they are vaccinated or immune. A person who has had the disease in the past, has been vaccinated, or who was born before 1957 is considered to be immune.

The best way for a person to protect themselves against measles is by getting the MMR vaccine. KCHD has MMR vaccine available at all four of its clinic locations. These vaccines are available by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling 616-632-7200. People can also contact their primary healthcare provider for vaccination information.