Measles in Michigan: Who's Most at Risk Now?

I can't say I miss the days of wondering what virus, bug, or bacteria would hitch a ride with my kids when they came home from school every day. K-12 schools in Michigan, regardless of the time of year, are havens for illnesses just waiting for a new host. So, that's why when I read that measles was on the rise globally and we've had confirmed cases in Michigan this year, I immediately wanted to sanitize my entire body.

While there have only been six reported cases in Michigan in 2024, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), that's six more than we should have. Why?

Who's Most at Risk for Measles in Michigan

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Globally, measles cases jumped 20% last year, with a jaw-dropping 10.3 million infections. Why? Because millions of people haven't been vaccinated for a completely preventable disease.

So, who's most at risk? The unvaccinated. Measles is so contagious that 90% of unvaccinated people will contract it when exposed. Infants and kids under 5 are especially vulnerable, as are people whose immune systems aren't firing on all cylinders.

What Are the Symptoms?

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Measles starts with a high fever, cough, and a runny nose (sounds like every Michigan cold, right?). But it's not just the sniffles: watch out for red, watery eyes and an infamous rash that spreads like wildfire. Don't forget the Koplik Spots—tiny little white dots that pop up in your mouth like little reminders you should have got vaccinated.

Again, this all can be prevented with a vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends checking your vaccination status, especially with holiday travel and school in full swing.

Michigan Department of Corrections Most Wanted Fugitives

The Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) has a long, storied history, which includes hundreds of unsuccessful prison breaks. That said, some have been successful enough that nearly 50 years later, some Michigan fugitives are still running from justice. Here's a look at the MDOC's Most Wanted Fugitives and Absconders

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Michigan Cities Getting the Most (And Least) Sunlight Annually

CurrentResults' recent study calculated the annual days 8 Michigan cities spend with sunshine by classifying Sunny Days as those when clouds cover up to 30% of the sky and Partly Sunny days as those with clouds covering between 31% and 70% of the sky. By adding these two figures together, they were able to determine which Michigan cities get the most and least sunshine annually.