TUCSON, Arizona — A new report from the CDC this week states 695 cases of measles are now confirmed across 22 states.
In 2019, one case of measles has been confirmed in The Grand Canyon State and that was in Pima County, Arizona. While the case has been closed, experts are warning adults who were born in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s that even if you were vaccinated, you may still be at risk.
"Children and adults were only vaccinated for measles, mumps and rubella with one dose," said Paula Mandel, deputy director of the Pima County Health Dept. "As we went on we learned that sometimes one dose is not enough to give us full immunity."
Mandel recommends adults of Generation X check with their medical provider and schedule a second dose of vaccinations.
"If you want to see what your immunity is to measles you can have a blood test drawn. It checks to see how strong the immunity is in the body," she said.
Mandel believes the resurgence of measles is due to non-vaccinated people who are exposed to the virus while visiting another country and after returning then share it with others unknowingly. In line with the CDC, the Pima County Heath Department recommends everyone receive two doses.
"Children get their first dose at 12 months of age and get their second dose right before they go into preschool or kindergarten after the age of 4," Mandel said.
Symptoms of measles tend to appear seven to 14 days after a person is infected, including a high fever, a cough, runny nose, watery eyes, and a rash starting at your hair line. If you believe you have been exposed, the CDC recommends you contact your healthcare provider before being seen at their office.
