On April 24, 2024, the Vermont Health Department confirmed a case of measles in an individual who is in Vermont as part of an international program. This is the first confirmed case of measles in Vermont since 2018.
What is the general risk?
There is no ongoing transmission risk from this case to members of the public in Vermont. However, the Health Department has identified that people inside the Hampton Inn in Colchester on Wednesday, April 17, before 3:45pm might have had a brief, transient exposure.
But certain individuals may be at risk
Known hotel guests who might have had a transient exposure are advised confirm their evidence of immunity and reach out to the Health Department for guidance if they don’t know or cannot confirm they have immunity.
Everyone who was at the hotel during that time should monitor for symptoms through May 8 and reach out to their health care provider if they develop any symptoms. Quarantine is not recommended for those with transient exposure, regardless of immune status.
A small number of individuals who had either face-to-face contact with the case or a more prolonged duration of exposure have been notified. The Health Department is conducting symptom monitoring for these close contacts for the duration of the incubation period, regardless of immune status. For close contacts who are nonimmune, quarantine is recommended through 21 days from their last exposure.
Where can I get more information?
Guidance is available on the Health Department’s website at Measles | Vermont Department of Health.
What is measles?
Measles typically presents in adults and children as an acute, viral illness characterized by fever and rash. The rash usually starts on the face, proceeds down the body, and may reach the palms and soles. The rash, which lasts for several days, will fade in order of appearance. Complications include diarrhea, otitis media, pneumonia, hepatitis, and encephalitis.
Photo from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.