SUMMERS COUNTY W.Va. (Hinton News) – One thing has been in the news a lot lately, and that’s the measles outbreak Texas has been experiencing. Due to an exposure at an airport, West Virginia now has the potential to see measles in our area. Hope Cooper from the Summers County Health Department has graciously shared information on the disease and what to do should measles hit our area.
Cooper said that if an outbreak were to occur in Summers County, every effort would be made to ensure that patients isolate and that exposed individuals are notified as soon as possible. “Measles spreads rapidly and it’s very important that providers inform us immediately when they have a positive case, “Cooper explained. She went on to explain that the health department leans heavily on primary care physicians’ offices to give them complete information and to aid in their contact efforts for all infectious diseases.
Cooper said if Someone thinks a family member has the measles, to isolate them immediately and contact the primary care provider. “It’s always better to be safe than sorry,“ Cooper said. Measles is one of the most easily spread of all human diseases, and just being in the same room with someone can result in infection, according to Cooper. Cooper told Hinton News that measles, unlike other viruses, can linger in the air up to two hours. This would make anyone who comes into a room susceptible to becoming infected. She went on to say that keeping exposed individuals away from everyone is key. Cooper advised that while measles is more contagious than COVID-19, there’s no need to panic because education is the key. Don’t be scared of it, she said, but learn how to protect yourself. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and rest, hydrate, and isolate. Cooper said while it’s not fun, it’s safe for everyone.
Cooper explained that practicing good hygiene is always a good idea, along with disinfecting your surroundings often to help avoid contracting the measles. Of course, there’s always the option of the vaccine. If you plan to travel, Cooper advises doing your research on what illnesses/viruses are active in the area. You should always check the CDC website for guidelines to help educate yourselves.
Cooper told Hinton News that there’s no cure for measles and every virus treats individuals differently. She said to make sure your health care provider is aware of any other health issues you have, to make sure you receive the best choices possible for treatment of the measles. Cooper also said anyone who has questions about their immunity status or vaccinations should feel free to contact their primary physician. There are many questions surrounding this old yet newly emerging virus. “The more you educate yourself, the healthier you will be.“
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