MVSKOKE RESERVATION – According to the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH), two measles cases have been reported in Oklahoma. The March 11 report to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) identified two contributing factors to these cases. The first factor is that both individuals reported exposures associated with the Texas and New Mexico outbreak, the second is that both experienced symptoms consistent with measles. The report states that after both individuals learned they were exposed, they took the proper precautions by self isolating at home while contagious.
In light of the situation, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Health Department continues to work with the state health department to identify and monitor diseases found on the Mvskoke Reservation.
According to MCN Health, although measles is a disease that was once officially eliminated in the United States due to effective vaccines, it still remains common in many parts of the world and it can be brought over by international travellers. If a major outbreak situation were to occur on the Mvskoke reservation, MCN Health would coordinate with OSDH as well as the CDC to respond to infectious illnesses. According to OSDH Director of Infectious Disease Prevention and Response Kendra Dougherty, awareness is important.
“These cases highlight the importance of being aware of measles activity as people travel or host visitors,” Dougherty said. “When people know they have exposure risk and do not have immunity to measles, they can exclude themselves from public settings for the recommended duration to eliminate the risk of transmission in their community.”
Measles symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes after initial exposure. Two to three days after symptoms appear, koplik (white spots in the mouth) may appear. Three to five days later, a measles rash may appear as flat red spots along the hairline and spread down the body.
If an individual has measles symptoms and a known exposure, MCN Health advises they self isolate and call their healthcare provider for information on what to do next.
The Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) Vaccine is recommended for children ages 12-15 months old. A second dose is recommended between four to six years old. Two doses typically provide lifelong immunity and are 97% effective at preventing measles. MCN Health advises those who are unsure if they have received the MMR vaccine to contact their healthcare provider.
For questions about the MMR vaccine or for pediatric services offered by MCN Health, they can be contacted at 918-233-9550.
