Measles case confirmed in Switzerland County

(VEVAY, Ind.) – There is a confirmed case of measles in Switzerland County, according to the Indiana Department of Health. 

There has been five known cases statewide this year with 3 being in Parke County, 1 in Switzerland County and 1 in Wayne County. 

Measles is caused by a highly contagious virus that spreads easily from person to person. It’s an airborne disease that can stay alive in the air and on surfaces for up to two hours. 

“If one person has it, up to 9 out of 10 people nearby will become infected if they are not protected,” the Indiana Department of Health stated. 

The Ripley County Health Department said a neighboring county with a positive case is good reason to get the measles vaccine. 

“We understand that not every Ripley County resident will choose to receive the measles vaccine.  But we do believe it is reasonable to ask every adult, as part of their civic duty, to do their due diligence by reading credible information and thoughtfully considering the risks of both action and inaction,” the health department said. 

You can pick up information about measles and the vaccines at the health department in Versailles. 

Measles is not simply a rash and a fever. Serious complications include pneumonia, inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), seizures, permanent neurological complications, and death, according to health officials.

According to the CDC, measles symptoms appear 7-14 days after contact with the virus.

Some symptoms are:

• High fever (may spike to more than 104°)

• Cough

• Runny nose (coryza)

• Red, watery eyes

  
  

The Ripley County Health Department did provide additional information on the virus and vaccines which you can read by clicking this link.

The Ripley County Health Department does offer the measles vaccine at their facility.