Public Health, Delta & Menominee Counties (PHDM) has confirmed three cases of measles in Delta County. The health department is working with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to investigate the cases and notify anyone who may be exposed.
Public exposure sites are being evaluated and will be shared if identified. These mark the first confirmed measles cases in the jurisdiction since 1989 and the first in the Upper Peninsula in 2026.
About 1 in 5 people who get measles will end up in the hospital. PHDM urges residents to check if they are protected from measles by reviewing their vaccination records. You can ask your doctor or contact the local health department. You are likely protected if:
You have had at least one MMR vaccine, which protects against measles, mumps, and rubella (children over 4 years and some adults at increased risk of exposure should have two doses of MMR to be fully protected); or
You have a record of immunity to measles (documented history of past measles infection, for example); or
You were born before 1957.
“Measles in very contagious and spreads easily through the air,” said Dayna Kapp, PHDM Health Officer. “Anyone not vaccinated is at higher risk of becoming ill if exposed.” Up to 9 out of 10 people exposed to measles will become infected if they are not protected. Symptoms usually start 7 to 14 days after exposure but can take up to 21 days to show up.
Watch for symptoms:
High fever (can go over 104 degrees F)
Cough
Runny nose
Red, watery eyes
Tiny white spots in the mouth
A red, raised rash that starts on the face and spreads to the body
If you get these symptoms, call your healthcare provider before seeking medical help. That way, you don’t spread measles to others.
The measles vaccine works very well and is safe. One dose offers about 93% protection. Two doses increase protection to about 97%. Getting vaccinated not only helps you, but it also protects others in your community. Babies under 12 months, pregnant people, and those with weak immune systems may be able to get a different treatment called immunoglobulin (IG). Getting the MMR shot or IG within 72 hours of exposure may stop you from getting sick.
PHDM offers MMR vaccines. To make an appointment or ask questions, call PHDM at (906) 786-4111. Most insurance plans cover the vaccine. If you don’t have insurance or your plan doesn’t cover vaccines, you may qualify for free or low-costs shots. Talk to your local health department or healthcare provider.
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