May 14, 2014 — The Tennessee Department of Health is now investigating five cases of measles in Madison, Shelby, Gibson, Hamilton and Hardeman counties. People in additional counties may have been exposed to measles due to some patients travelling while unknowingly being contagious.  The measles cases in Tennessee appear to have started with one traveler who was exposed to the illness in another country. The other four cases are individuals who were known to have been in close contact with the first patient. TDH is now investigating close contacts of the five persons in Tennessee known to have the illness. While the focus is currently on five counties, all Tennesseans should be aware of their vulnerability. The measles virus is highly contagious and can stay airborne or live on surfaces for up to two hours. Recently infected people may not have any symptoms of illness, but can transmit the virus for about five days before the typical rash appears. Symptoms of measles usually appear within one to two weeks after exposure and may include a blotchy rash, runny nose, fever, aches, watery eyes and white spots in the mouth. Nearly one in three patients will develop ear infections, diarrhea or pneumonia. For some, measles can be deadly; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates measles caused 164,000 deaths worldwide as recently as 2008. Safe and effective vaccinations are readily available across Tennessee to prevent measles. All members of the public of any age considering international travel, including the parents of infants and toddlers, should consult their healthcare provider about their risk of measles and evaluate their need for the MMR vaccine.“When people should be vaccinated depends on age, medical conditions, travel plans and other factors,” said State Epidemiologist Tim Jones, MD.  “While many recent cases are linked to travel to other countries where measles immunizations programs are not on par with the United States, almost anyone of any age, at any place, can be exposed to the measles virus. While you may not go out of the country, you may come in contact with people who do. Being properly vaccinated is critical in preventing measles. Talk with your health care provider about what is best for you and your family.”For more information about measles, visit www.cdc.gov/measles/index.html.