A measles outbreak linked to a Cobb County daycare and a recent West Nile death have prompted health officials to urge residents to check vaccination records and prevent mosquito bites.
Lisa Crossman, deputy director of Cobb and Douglas Public Health, discussed both illnesses at a Marietta Kiwanis Club meeting Friday, Oct. 9, according to the Marietta Daily Journal.
The daycare outbreak had reached 10 confirmed cases by September. Most involved young children, including some younger than one, Georgia Public Health Commissioner Dr. Kathleen Toomey wrote in a Sept. 14 letter to physicians.
Measles outbreak raises concerns for families
The initial case associated with the outbreak was confirmed Aug. 18. By Sept. 11, officials had identified 10 linked cases, according to Georgia Public Broadcasting.
Crossman said prolonged close contact at the daycare created opportunities for transmission. Health officials have not publicly named the facility.
Measles can cause serious complications, including pneumonia and inflammation of the brain. People can spread the virus from four days before the rash appears through four days afterward, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Two doses of the MMR vaccine are about 97% effective at preventing measles. The routine schedule calls for the first dose at 12–15 months and the second at ages 4–6.
Families who suspect exposure or illness should call a healthcare provider or public health department before arriving for care, allowing staff to take precautions against further spread. Georgia’s public health reporting line is 866-782-4584.
East Cobb family reports West Nile death
Jennifer Benson, an 83-year-old East Cobb resident, died Oct. 3 after a two-week illness with West Nile virus, according to her obituary and family.
Her sister, Vivian Benson, told WSB-TV that Jennifer had been active and healthy before becoming ill.
West Nile spreads primarily through infected mosquito bites. There is no licensed vaccine for humans or specific antiviral treatment, although supportive medical care is available.
Residents can reduce exposure by using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing and removing standing water where mosquitoes breed.
Free mosquito-control tablets available
Cobb and Douglas Public Health is distributing free mosquito larvicide tablets through Friday, Oct. 30, while supplies last.
Eligible households in Cobb and Douglas counties can receive one pack of six tablets. Pickup locations are:
- Marietta Public Health Center, Building A
- Acworth-Kennesaw Public Health Center
- Smyrna Public Health Center
- South Cobb Public Health Center
- Douglas Public Health Center
The agency recommends emptying water from bird baths, planters, pet bowls and similar containers weekly. Larvicide tablets should be used for standing water that cannot easily be drained or eliminated, following product instructions.
Eligibility and pickup information are available in the CDPH distribution announcement.
