Wisconsin Health Officials Warn of Measles Exposure at Travel Stops

Wisconsin health authorities have issued a warning regarding potential exposure to measles following visits by an out-of-state traveler to two gas stations in the state. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reported that individuals who were at the Flying J Travel Center in Roberts and the Pilot Travel Center in Beloit on August 4, 2023, may have been exposed to the virus.

The exposure at the Flying J Travel Center occurred between 7:15 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., while those at the Pilot Travel Center could have been exposed from 11:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Health officials are urging anyone who visited these locations during these times to verify their immunization status against measles.

Measles symptoms typically manifest 7 to 14 days after exposure. Individuals exposed on August 4 could start showing symptoms by August 25. Symptoms include a runny nose, high fever, cough, irritation and discoloration of the eyes, and a distinctive red rash with raised bumps. Anyone experiencing these symptoms is advised to stay away from public places and consult their doctor.

As of this year, Wisconsin has recorded nine cases of measles, all of which occurred in Oconto County in July. In a concerning trend, Minnesota has reported five cases of measles this year, highlighting a potential rise in measles incidents across the region. Health officials in Minnesota attribute this increase to declining vaccination rates, with only 87% of kindergarteners fully vaccinated in 2024, down from over 92% in 2019. Last year, Minnesota saw 70 cases of measles, representing about one-third of all cases in the state since 2010.

The situation underscores the importance of vaccination in preventing the spread of measles, a highly contagious disease. Health agencies continue to encourage individuals to confirm their vaccination status and seek immunization if necessary.