PITTSBURGH — On Thursday, UPMC Children’s Hospital confirmed the first case of measles in our region.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE >>> Patient at UPMC Children’s Hospital tests positive for measles
According to a spokesperson, an unvaccinated patient who was seen at Children’s on August 12 and 18 has been diagnosed with measles.
If you’re a parent, you’re likely concerned by the news of that confirmed measles case.
Channel 11 spoke with a doctor about how to best protect your child and yourself.
Dr. Marian Michaels is a professor of pediatrics and infectious diseases with UPMC Children’s Hospital.
“It was only a matter of time that eventually it would come to our area as well,” Michaels said.
Measles cases have climbed in Pennsylvania.
“Measles is one of the most contagious viruses known to man,” Michaels said.
While some viruses may remain in the air for minutes, measles remains for two hours and can rapidly spread.
Michaels couldn’t discuss specifics of the confirmed case, but did tell Channel 11 what parents should look out for.
The virus starts with cold-like symptoms followed by a rash that starts on the face or head and spreads downward.
“About 1 in 100 will go on to have pneumonia. 1 in 1000 can have brain disease from the virus; 1 to 2 in a thousand children who have not been vaccinated and get measles can die from it,” Michaels said,
She says the vaccine is very effective.
“If you had your vaccines, you do not have to worry,” Michaels said.
MMR shots are currently recommended when a child turns 1and again before going to school.
Michaels says babies have some protection if their mom was vaccinated, but anyone exposed to measles should contact their doctor.
She says the shots are safe and that online theories suggesting otherwise are misinformation.
“This vaccine is safe, the virus is not safe, the virus does not have any health benefits; there is no benefit to having measles,” Michaels said.
Children’s Hospital is working with the county health department to notify anyone who may have been exposed to that measles case.
Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.
Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW