As hundreds of cyclists poured through the Summit City, there was hope that the event would not only bring some exercise and entertainment to the participants but hopefully a changed view of the community in general.The measles outbreak in Noble County has jumped across county lines, state officials said Friday.
At least one person has been infected in LaGrange County, and cases in Noble County have jumped from five to 11.
The cases can be traced back to an unvaccinated adult who returned from an international trip about three weeks ago after contracting the highly contagious respiratory infection, according to Indiana Health Commissioner Gregory Larkin.
The outbreak may have affected seven surrounding counties, including Allen, DeKalb, Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Steuben and Whitley, according to officials. Those who may have been exposed are encouraged to contact their local health department and inquire about free vaccinations, according to Amy Bukarica, Indiana Department of Health public affairs director.
The Noble County Health Department, 2090 N. Indiana 9 in Albion, will continue to offer vaccinations next week.
The state continues to conduct its own investigation in hopes of containing the infection, interviewing those who may have interacted with infected individuals, according to Bukarica.
Measles, which begins with fever-like symptoms and can result in a full-body rash, can be best prevented by full vaccination, according to the state health department.
More than 95 percent of people who receive a single dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccines will develop immunity.
Noble County Public Health Nurse Cheryl Munson said the infection can be fatal, but only in incredibly rare instances.
