EDITOR’S NOTE: This story has been updated to include the latest information from the state and Ottawa County.
HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — The number of measles cases medically confirmed in Michigan is now 44.
For all of 2018, the state’s health and human services department found a total of 18 cases — and in 2017, Michigan saw just two instances of measles.
Allegan has seen no cases. Ottawa County had initially reported one case so far this year, according to Kristina Wieghmink, Ottawa County’s health department spokesperson, but “was a suspect case that turned out to be negative, and has since been classified as Not a Case.”
Lynn Sutfin, Michigan Department of Health and Human Service’s spokesperson, said measles-specific numbers are posted online as part of the larger report “includes cases under investigation. There are no confirmed cases in either Ottawa or Allegan counties.”
She said the most-current figures are online at Michigan.gov/measles.
Measles used to be a commmon childhood disease, but it can cause deadly cases of encephalitis, a type of brain swelling.
Ottawa County health officials are strongly encouraging people to get vacinnated before traveling, as some cases have been transmitted in airports or on airplanes.
County health vaccinations must be scheduled six weeks before trips — and costs vary.
