First case of measles in Arkansas identified since 2018

The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) has confirmed the first case of measles in the state since 2018. The case involves an unvaccinated child from Saline County who contracted the virus during out-of-state travel.

Measles is a highly contagious disease that can lead to severe health complications. Symptoms include fever, cough, runny nose, conjunctivitis, and rash. The virus is infectious for four days before and after the rash appears. The measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine offers long-lasting protection against the disease.

The infected individual visited several locations while contagious, including Baptist Health Urgent Care in Benton on April 6 from 3:30 to 6:09 p.m., Saline Memorial Hospital Emergency Department on April 6 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m., Benton Family Clinic on April 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and Arkansas Children Hospital's (ACH) Emergency Department on April 8 from 11:49 a.m. to 5:59 p.m.

No exposures have been identified at daycares or schools.

The ADH urges anyone who was at these locations during the specified times to ensure they are up to date on the MMR vaccine. Receiving the vaccine soon after exposure can prevent the infection from developing. Those unable to receive the vaccine should consult their healthcare provider for alternatives.

The ADH and affected facilities are reaching out to potentially exposed individuals. People who were at the listed locations during the specified times should monitor for symptoms for 21 days post-exposure. If symptoms develop, individuals should contact their healthcare provider by phone, mention potential measles exposure, and have the provider contact ADH at 1-866-940-7568.

Arkansas Children’s has also set up a call line for families. If you believe you have been exposed during your visit, you can call the hospital at 501-364-8367.

"Arkansas Children's encourages families to ensure they are up-to-date on their measles immunizations and to reach out to their primary care physician, pediatrician, pharmacy or county health unit to schedule a measles vaccine, known as the MMR," said Karen Farst, MD, Senior Vice President & Chief Medical Officer at ACH.

Individuals who have received the MMR vaccine or were born before 1957 are generally considered immune. For more information, visit the Arkansas Department of Health's website or call 1-866-940-7568 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.