Knox County Health Department Declares Public Healthcare Emergency Over Measles Concerns

KNOX COUNTY, Ind. (We Are Knox County) - The Knox County Health Department has declared a healthcare emergency in Knox County due to the measles virus.

While there are no known cases of measles in Knox County, the health department says the emergency declaration is intended to raise awareness and prevent a significant outbreak in the county.

According to the health department, Indiana has reported 145 cases of measles, including one in neighboring Daviess County.

Nationwide, 5,182 cases had been reported as of November 7.

Health officials say measles is highly contagious and spreads through the air.

A person can be exposed by being in the same room as someone infected with the virus or entering an area up to two hours after that person has left.

Symptoms typically include fever, sore throat, dry cough and generally feeling unwell.

A rash usually develops several days after the initial symptoms begin.

An infected person can spread measles from four days before the rash appears until four days afterward.

Knox County Health Officer Dr. Alan Stewart says vaccination is the best way to protect against the virus.

The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine is available at the Knox County Health Department at no cost, regardless of insurance status.

According to the health department, one dose of the vaccine provides approximately 93% protection, while two doses provide 97% protection.

Children typically receive their first dose at age one and their second at age four.

However, due to the emergency declaration, the health department is offering vaccinations to children as young as nine months upon parental request.

Infants as young as six months may also be vaccinated with a doctor's note.

Health officials say individuals who are not immune and are exposed to measles may be required to quarantine for 21 days.

Dr. Stewart says that getting vaccinated may help avoid that quarantine period.

Anyone experiencing symptoms or seeking testing can visit a Good Samaritan outpatient clinic.

Hospital officials ask patients to call ahead so a healthcare provider can perform the test at their vehicle.

Stewart encourages anyone unsure of their vaccination status to get vaccinated, noting that the vaccine is available at no cost.

The health department says 97% of Indiana's reported measles cases have occurred in unvaccinated individuals.

Officials hope increasing vaccination rates will help prevent an outbreak in Knox County and reduce the risk of residents missing work or school due to exposure.

You can learn more about measles on the Center for Disease Control's website.