Oregon Confirms New Measles Case in Clackamas County but No Exposure Sites Identified Yet

The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) confirmed yesterday that a new measles case had been identified in Clackamas County. The person was unvaccinated, and OHA urged Oregonians to ensure they are protected against measles through immunization.

Measles In Clackamas County

OHA did not identify the gender, age, or other personal details of the person identified with measles.

OHA and Clackamas County health officials are investigating whether the person traveled outside Oregon or whether the case is linked to other measles cases, including the two Linn County measles cases reported on Jan. 10. Both patients were unvaccinated and had no known travel outside Oregon.

While there are currently no known public exposure locations associated with the Clackamas County case, state and local officials are working to identify others who may have been exposed to help ensure they are adequately protected against measles.

Howard Chiou, M.D., Ph.D., medical director for communicable diseases and immunizations at OHA’s Public Health Division, confirmed that vaccination against measles is the best way to protect yourself and your family from measles. He said,  “Measles is more than a rash and fever.”

Measles can be dangerous, especially among infants and children younger than 5, older adults, pregnant people, and people with weakened immune systems. Dr. Chiou confirmed that measles can suppress the immune system and increase the risk of severe disease from other infections. He suggested that everyone talk with their health care providers to ensure they are up to date on vaccinations.

For more information about measles, click here.