FRESNO (KMJ) — A national rise in the number of measles cases has prompted Fresno County to place doctors on alert for infections appearing locally.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that 555 cases have been reported from 20 states (including California) between January 1st and April 11th 2019. That registers as the second highest number since 2000 (click here to read more).
“We are on an alert status where we are keeping a closer eye on those reports coming in with suspected measles,” said Fresno County Department of Public Health’s Leticia Berber.
Berber stated that there are no confirmed cases of measles in Fresno County at this point, but warned that parents and caregivers not to become complacent.
“Be aware of where you’re traveling at this time. If you live here in Fresno County, keep in mind that Fresno County does have a high vaccination rate with measles so that’s good news for those parents who are unable to vaccinate their children.
“But if you do plan to travel outside the United States please do your research and see if there are any measles cases out in that area.”
State statistics show that 97% of kindergartners in Fresno County have been vaccinated against measles. The CDC has been made aware of outbreaks in the states of Washington, New Jersey, and Michigan, as well as California’s Butte County.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
