No measles cases reported in Eagle County
Health officials recommend vaccines for kids, adults

Ed Us via Unsplash/Courtesy photo
While new cases of measles are being reported in Colorado, none have been reported in Eagle County yet.
That was the opening portion of Tuesday’s report to the Eagle County Board of Commissioners, which met as the Eagle County Board of Health.
Responding to a question from Commissioner Matt Scherr, Eagle County Deputy Public Health Director Rebecca Larson said there haven’t been any measles cases locally, but noted a “handful” of reported cases in Colorado. Larson also noted an increase in reported cases across the United States, as well as Mexico and other nations.
Larson encouraged people to get vaccinated with the Measles, Mumps and Rubella — or MMR — vaccine, calling it “extremely effective” in fighting the spread of the disease.
Larson recommended two doses of the vaccine for all children — the first at 12 to 15 months, and the second between 4-6 years. For infants between six months and 1 year old, Larson recommended a dose of the vaccine for those traveling to areas where measles is circulating.

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Measles is highly contagious, and symptoms can take between seven and 21 days to develop. Symptoms include a high fever, a cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. A rash is likely to appear three to five days after symptoms begin.
When it comes to adults, county health officials recommend that those vaccinated before 1968 get one booster of the current MMR vaccine to increase their protection. Most insurance plans cover the cost of those vaccines.
Scherr also asked Larson about any other “curious” bugs going around the county.
Larson replied that there has been a typical seasonal increase in gastrointestinal illnesses, and recommended that people pay attention to hand-washing, as well as proper food preparation and storage.
