June 11, 2019

Maine CDC Health Update

This update is intended to provide accurate information about public health developments in the northern region of the state. There is no risk to the public from these cases.

New case of Hepatitis A in Aroostook County

On May 17, Maine CDC announced a case of hepatitis A in a Caribou food service worker. In response, Public Health Nurses and local hospitals administered approximately 1,350 doses of the hepatitis A vaccine to individuals in Aroostook County.

Maine CDC identified a new case of hepatitis A in a person from Aroostook County on June 10. This person had multiple possible exposures, including out-of-state travel, and it is unclear where they acquired the disease and whether it is connected to the previously announced case. This person does not work in food service and there is no risk to the public from this new case.

Hepatitis A is a liver infection caused by a virus. It can range from a mild illness lasting a few weeks to a severe illness lasting several months. This disease usually spreads when a person ingests the virus from contaminated objects, food, or drinks. It can also spread from close contact with an infected person such as caring for someone who is ill.

New case of measles in Aroostook County

On May 20, Maine CDC announced a case of measles in Somerset County. Maine CDC did not identify any subsequent measles cases as a result of this case.

On June 10, Maine CDC identified a new case of measles in a person from Aroostook County. This person had no travel history and it is unclear where they acquired the disease. This person did not expose anyone in the public to measles and there is no risk to the public from this new case. There is no connection to the Somerset County measles case.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease characterized by fever; cough; runny nose; and red, watery eyes (conjunctivitis) followed by a rash that spreads from the head to the lower extremities. Measles can cause severe health complications including pneumonia, encephalitis (brain swelling), and death. The incubation period – the period from exposure to onset of symptoms – is typically 10-14 days.

With the ongoing measles outbreak in the United States, it is not unexpected to have sporadic cases of measles, especially considering the summer travel season. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported on June 10 that there are 1,022 cases of measles in 28 states through June 6.

Individuals are encouraged to stay informed about their vaccination history and to ensure all recommended vaccinations are up to date. For vaccine questions, please contact the Maine Immunization Program at 800-867-4775 or through immunizeme@maine.gov.