As measles cases have risen across the nation and in Kentucky, the seven counties of the Green River District Health Department have until recently had no reported cases.
But as of Nov. 11, the first case in the Green River area—in Henderson County—was reported.
Clay Horton, the public health director for Green River District Health Department, said that there have been no exposures identified at childcare settings, schools or churches.
He said he was not permitted to give any information on the demographics of the one case, which would include age. He did not know if the person had been vaccinated.
Though it’s the only confirmed measles case in this district, the case is a part of more than 200 cases that have been confirmed statewide, according to remarks that Gov. Andy Beshear made at a Thursday press conference. The governor said that number represents more than the state has recorded in the past 35 years combined, while also saying that he’s sent a letter to President Donald Trump asking that he remove Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Horton said there have been 211 cases statewide, and though there had not been a measles case reported in the Green River district before Wednesday, health officials had been anticipating them.
The current case in Henderson County underscores the health department’s work to encourage residents receiving the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine, which Horton said is 95%-97% effective. He said the two shots on the schedule for children are enough and older people who have both shots would not need a booster.
Horton said the single case in Henderson County is concerning “because we might see additional cases” and advised residents to be aware that measles are in the community.
And if people believe they have measles, Horton advised them to call ahead to their health care provider so that the clinic or office space can be prepared for the patient’s arrival while limiting exposure to others.
