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Source: Chinook Observer (WA)

By: St. John, Natalie

07/01/2014

The Washington State Department of Health has recorded at least 20 measles cases in the state this year, compared with about five cases in an average year. In June, at least nine cases were reported in Pierce and King counties tied to a 10th person who contracted the measles during a trip to the Pacific islands. Health officials in King County are collaborating with health officials in Micronesia to curtail the spread of the disease. Residents are being urged to get up-to-date on their MMR vaccinations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 19 other states have seen significant increases in measles cases this summer, with 17 outbreaks and 540 cases confirmed nationwide as of June 27.