Chippewa Falls – The Chippewa County Department of Public Health (CCDPH), in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), has confirmed one case of measles in a Chippewa County resident.
The case was confirmed through testing at the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene (WSLH). Public health officials are working with the individual and their healthcare providers to investigate the case and identify anyone who may have been exposed. Individuals identified as having a potential exposure will be contacted directly by public health officials.
At this time, the investigation is ongoing. If public locations are identified where people may have been exposed, and those individuals cannot be directly identified, the Chippewa County Department of Public Health will provide that information to the public.
“Measles is highly contagious, so confirming a case in our community is concerning,” said Chippewa County Health Officer Brittnay Herrick. “Our public health team is working closely with partners to identify potential exposures and ensure those affected have the information and guidance they need. We encourage community members to stay informed, know their vaccination status, and watch for information from the Health Department and our partners as the investigation continues.”
Measles is spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or breathes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Symptoms typically develop 10 to 12 days after exposure but can occur anywhere from 7 to 21 days after exposure. Symptoms may include:
• Runny nose
• High fever, sometimes greater than 104°F
• Tiredness
• Cough
• Red, watery eyes
• A red rash that typically begins at the hairline and spreads to the arms and legs
Measles can cause serious health complications, including pneumonia, brain damage, deafness, and can sometimes be deadly. Data show that about one in four unvaccinated people who contract measles in the United States likely would require hospitalization.
If you think you may have measles, tell your doctor or clinic before your visit so they can take precautions to ensure other patients are not exposed.
The best way to prevent measles is through vaccination. Vaccine recommendations are as follows:
• Two doses of the MMR vaccine, one at 12–15 months and another around age four, are 97% effective at preventing measles.
• Adults born in or after 1957 who have never been vaccinated should get at least one dose.
• College students, international travelers, and health care workers should get two doses at least 28 days apart.
• People who are pregnant, have infants under 12 months, or cannot receive the MMR vaccine should consult their healthcare provider for guidance.

Immunizations are available at your healthcare provider, your local health department, and some pharmacies. Wisconsin residents can check their vaccination status through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR) at www.dhfswir.org. The Wisconsin Vaccines for Children Program covers vaccine costs for eligible children.
Stay up to date on measles in Chippewa County by following the Chippewa County Department of Public Health on Facebook or visiting www.chippewacountywi.gov/ccdph.
For more information on measles including additional confirmed cases, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services measles webpage at https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/disease/measles.htm.

About the Chippewa County Department of Public Health
The Chippewa County Department of Public Health is a Level III accredited agency dedicated to promoting and protecting the health of everyone in Chippewa County. Guided by values of Partnership, Respect, Innovation, Dedication, and Equity, it strengthens public health through education, outreach, and collaboration to make Chippewa County the healthiest place to live.