GRAND TRAVERSE COUNTY, Mich. – Health officials have confirmed a measles outbreak in Grand Traverse County following the identification of a third case on Monday, June 23. This marks the first such outbreak in the area since 2019.
Immediate Impact
The Grand Traverse County Health Department (GTCHD) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) define an outbreak as having three or more related cases. The first case in this series was reported on June 18, 2025, with a second case emerging just two days later.
“It is important that we, as the public health department, take action to protect, maintain, and improve the health of our community,” said Mike Lahey, MPH, Health Officer at GTCHD. “Measles is a serious disease, and we want to make sure that our residents and visitors are safe.”
Key Details Emerge
Currently, no new public exposure sites have been reported, and all cases have been linked to one another, according to GTCHD. Symptoms of measles typically begin 7-14 days after exposure but can appear up to 21 days later. They include:
- High fever (may spike over 104°F)
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis)
- Tiny white spots on the inner cheeks, gums, and roof of the mouth (Koplik Spots)
- A rash that starts on the face and spreads to the trunk, arms, and legs
Residents experiencing symptoms are urged to contact their healthcare provider. If in-person care is needed, it is advised to call ahead to prevent exposure to others.
What Comes Next
The GTCHD has established a measles hotline available during business hours and on the weekend for concerned residents. In some cases, post-exposure treatment may be possible if administered within six days of exposure.
Measles Hotline: 231-995-6800 (Mon-Fri: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Sat-Sun: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.)
Expert Analysis
Health experts emphasize the importance of vaccination, especially during this busy travel season. “Those who are not vaccinated against measles should consider getting vaccinated,” Lahey advised. The timing of this outbreak coincides with increased travel, raising concerns about further spread.
Background Context
Measles is a highly contagious virus that was largely eliminated in the U.S. due to vaccination efforts. However, recent years have seen a resurgence, often linked to unvaccinated populations. This development builds on previous health alerts and underscores the need for continued vigilance.
Grand Traverse County’s last measles case was reported in 2019, making this outbreak particularly significant. The move represents a significant shift from the county’s previous status and highlights the ongoing challenges in public health management.
The announcement comes as communities nationwide grapple with similar public health issues, underscoring the interconnected nature of disease prevention and control.
For more information and guidance on measles prevention and vaccination, residents are encouraged to contact their local health department or healthcare provider.
